Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Doctor of Social Work (DSW)

School

Social Work

Advisor

Dr. Alex Casiano

Abstract

Medical trauma in the hospital is a growing health disparity often accompanied by social determinants. Assisting in alleviating disparities and social determinants is a standard of care embedded in social work practice. This research was conducted to examine healthcare social workers’ experiences responding to and managing the psychosocial impacts of adult medical trauma in an acute inpatient environment. The goal of the research was to identify if a need exists for trauma-informed training among healthcare social workers. The research question examined how healthcare social workers respond to medical trauma. The model of case management, trauma-informed care, and systems theory were used to establish an understanding of healthcare social workers’ experiences in providing trauma-informed care. In a qualitative research study, interviews were conducted with 11 qualified healthcare social workers from Virginia, Maryland, North Carolina, and Washington, D.C. Data were analyzed and coded using secure qualitative coding software. The findings showed that education, training, and overall experience of healthcare social workers varied among participants, indicating a need for trauma-informed care training for clinical social workers in the acute care setting. Healthcare social workers would benefit from trauma-informed training, and further studies and evaluations are needed on the effectiveness in implementing this approach. Social workers establishing a consistent identity in practice approaches can promote an environment of positive social change in which social workers are operating at the top of the profession and can improve perceptions of social workers by other interdisciplinary team members. Creating a more cohesive environment among interdisciplinary team members can lead to more holistic treatment for patients and improved health outcomes.

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