The condition was given different terms during earlier periods of time. The terminology use with an understanding of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) has evolved. World War I, World War II, Vietnam War, Desert Storm and the Iraq War had a role in the study of PTSD as military personnel were in war and returned from was. Reseach lead to psychologist studying the impact of war on the soldier. Today the scientific knowledge of PTSD broaden the realization of the truism. PTSD is recognized as a ligitimate mental disorder.
The student in a clinical environment must meet the approved objectives by the Board of Vocational Nursing and Psych Technicians (BVNPT). This requires participation and contributions to their educational process. As the clinical instructor, monitoring the student for demonstration of difficulty participating could put the resident at risk.
As a nursing instructor, having compassion or empathy for someone with PTSD is understood. However, the expectation in the nursing profession should be to handle stressful situations and maintain the ability to function. To remain in a nursing program and handling the stress would be a requirement. Each student with PTSD would need to me evaluated prior to taking care of residents.
Note: This is my opinion. This is not something I'm aware that is being implemented.
