What formal process helps emergency workers cope with stress, including defusing and debriefing sessions?

• A. Occupational Safety and Health Administration
• B. Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM)
• C. Expanded PPE
• D. Minimum PPE

Answer: (B)

The main idea being tested is how emergency workers cope with the emotional impact of traumatic events through a structured support process. Critical Incident Stress Management provides a formal framework that includes defusing and debriefing.

Defusing is a brief, on-scene or immediate-after-incident conversation designed to reduce initial emotional arousal and provide basic information so responders aren’t overwhelmed. Debriefing is a more formal, facilitated group session held within the first day or two after the event where participants discuss emotional and cognitive reactions, clarify what happened, and share coping strategies. This approach helps normalize responses, identify ongoing needs, and connects individuals with support if needed, reducing the risk of longer-term problems like PTSD or burnout. The other options are about safety regulations or protective equipment, not about processing trauma or stress.