Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder After Road Traffic Injury Predictors and Clinical Outcomes.

Abstract

Background

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a major psychological concern following road traffic injuries (RTIs), yet it is frequently underdiagnosed in acute trauma settings. Early identification of individuals at high risk is essential, as untreated PTSD can profoundly affect functioning, recovery, and overall quality of life.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of PTSD one month after RTIs and to identify key predictors, including demographic and clinical factors, as well as its association with outcomes such as functional recovery, pain severity, and length of hospital stay.

Methodology

This prospective observational study conducted at Department Surgery, Islamic International Medical College, Rawalpindi from July 2023 to Sept 2023. PTSD assessments were performed one month post-injury. Demographic, clinical, and injury-related data were collected. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS version 24.0. Continuous variables were described using means and standard deviations, and categorical variables were analyzed using Chi-square tests. Logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of PTSD. A p-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

A total of 120 patients were included, with a mean age of 32.4 ± 9.8 years. PTSD was identified in 38.3% of participants one month after injury. Severe injuries were significantly associated with higher PTSD prevalence (p = 0.014). Female patients were more likely to develop PTSD compared to males (p = 0.031). Hospital stays longer than five days significantly increased the likelihood of PTSD (p = 0.022). Moderate to severe pain at follow-up was also strongly associated with PTSD (p = 0.018). Logistic regression demonstrated that PTSD independently predicted poorer functional capacity and reduced likelihood of returning to work within one month. Overall, PTSD severity correlated closely with injury severity, pain intensity, and prolonged hospitalization.

Conclusion

PTSD is common among survivors of road traffic injuries, particularly in those with severe trauma, prolonged hospitalization, and persistent pain. Early psychological screening and timely intervention are essential to improve recovery, preserve functionality, and prevent long-term psychological complication..