Dispatcher Wellness and Stress Management Flashcards

Which of the following statements about shift work disorder in dispatchers is MOST accurate?

Answer: It results from a misalignment between work schedules and the body's natural circadian rhythm

Shift work disorder occurs when work hours conflict with circadian rhythms, leading to insomnia, excessive sleepiness, and health consequences.

During an active critical incident, a dispatcher experiencing tunnel vision, rapid heartbeat, and racing thoughts should use which immediate regulation technique?

Answer: Tactical breathing (box breathing) to activate the parasympathetic response

Tactical (box) breathing—inhaling, holding, exhaling, and holding for equal counts—quickly activates the parasympathetic system to reduce acute stress.

Which of the following BEST describes the concept of 'vicarious trauma' in dispatchers?

Answer: A cumulative transformation in the dispatcher's worldview caused by repeated exposure to callers' trauma

Vicarious trauma is a deeper, more lasting shift in a dispatcher's beliefs, identity, and worldview resulting from repeated empathic engagement with traumatic material.

A dispatcher who regularly uses humor to cope with dark or distressing calls is exhibiting:

Answer: Gallows humor, which can serve as a normal adaptive coping mechanism among first responders

Gallows humor is widely recognized among first responders as an adaptive coping tool that creates social cohesion and emotional distance from trauma.

Which of the following is TRUE regarding confidentiality in peer support programs?

Answer: Communications are generally confidential unless there is risk of harm to self or others

Peer support programs typically protect confidentiality to encourage help-seeking, with standard exceptions for imminent safety concerns.

Long-term exposure to high cortisol levels due to chronic dispatcher stress is MOST associated with which health risk?

Answer: Increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and suppressed immunity

Chronically elevated cortisol suppresses immune function, raises blood pressure, impairs glucose metabolism, and increases cardiovascular risk.

Which organizational practice has been shown to MOST reduce dispatcher turnover linked to stress and burnout?

Answer: Implementing regular wellness check-ins, mental health days, and supervisor mental health training

Organizations that normalize mental health conversations, train supervisors, and offer proactive wellness resources see significantly lower turnover rates among dispatchers.