ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the different methods and parts of the critical incident stress management (CISM) model, the different types of intervention, their time structure and function within the whole system. The goal of crisis intervention is the reduction of stress reactions and the avoidance of a post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Pre-incident preparation and education means preparing for the CISM measures. Defusing is CISM measure for smaller groups. The critical incident stress debriefing (CISD) is a structured model for crisis intervention in groups consisting of seven phases. Normalization is the crucial aspect of a crisis intervention for groups or for a single person. Most of the crisis interventions happen individually with face-to-face communication, in exceptional cases via the telephone. The CISM program manager and the crisis intervention team (CIT) leader should also be trained in crisis intervention and strategic planning.
