What is a common emotional symptom of PTSD that may require nurse intervention?

Experiencing irritability is a common emotional symptom of PTSD that necessitates nurse intervention because it can significantly impact a person's relationships and overall functioning. Individuals with PTSD may face heightened emotional responses due to their experiences, which can lead to anger, frustration, or irritability in various situations. This irritability can strain relationships, create conflicts, and further complicate the healing process.

Nurses play a crucial role in identifying these symptoms as part of their assessment and can implement appropriate interventions. This might include providing a supportive environment, teaching coping strategies, or facilitating access to psychotherapy and other resources tailored to help the patient manage their emotional state.

In contrast, the other options reflect positive emotions and behaviors that do not typically align with the emotional challenges faced by someone with PTSD. Celebrating achievements, feeling joy in social gatherings, and expressing gratitude signify a level of emotional stability and engagement that would usually be less common in those experiencing PTSD symptoms, thus not requiring the same level of intervention.