Frequency of PTSD in a group of search and rescue workers two months after 2003 Bingol (Turkey) earthquake

This study aimed to determine the frequency of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a group of search and rescue workers 2 months after the May 2003 Bingol earthquake. Forty-four of 55 workers were interviewed. The Personal Information Form, the Clinician Administered Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Scale, the State Anxiety Inventory, the Trait Anxiety Inventory, the Beck Depression Inventory, the Quality of Life Enjoyment and Satisfaction Questionnaire, and the Endicott Work Productivity Scale were used. PTSD was diagnosed in 25% of the subjects. In subjects with PTSD, all scale scores were significantly higher. A positive correlation was determined between Clinician Administered Posttraumatic Stress Disorder Scale score and State Anxiety Inventory, Trait Anxiety Inventory, Beck Depression Inventory, Endicott Work Productivity Scale scores (r = 0.712, p = .000; r = 0.429, p = .004; r = 381, p = .011; r = 0.720, p = .000, respectively). The high scores of all scales showed that PTSD may also have comorbidity with other psychiatric disorders. Rescue workers who give first-level service in disasters should receive psychiatric support in specific time frames.