The Quality, Readability, Completeness, and Accuracy of PTSD Websites for Firefighters.

ABSTRACT: Firefighters appear at an increased risk for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Because of PTSD-related stigma, firefighters may search for information online. The current study evaluated the quality, readability, and completeness of PTSD online resources, and to determine how the online treatment recommendations align with current evidence. Google.ca (Canada) searches were performed using four phrases: 'firefighter PTSD', 'firefighter operational stress', 'PTSD symptoms', and 'PTSD treatment'. The 75 websites identified were assessed using quality criteria for consumer health information (DISCERN), readability and health literacy statistics, content analysis, and a comparison of treatments mentioned to the current best evidence. The average DISCERN score was 43.8 out of 75 (indicating

SUBMITTER: Killip SC 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7593916 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature