Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for occupational memories associated with prolonged depressive and trauma-related symptoms after COVID-10 administrative redeployment: A public health nurse case report

This case study utilizing EMDR therapy with a public health nurse illustrates the clinical relevance of assessing occupational memories as possible contributors to persistent trauma-related symptoms after administrative redeployment.

Article Abstract

“Reports remain limited on individual eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) for prolonged trauma-related symptoms linked to occupational memories after COVID-19 administrative redeployment among public health nurses. A woman in her 30s working as a public health nurse developed prolonged depressive symptoms, intrusive recollections, nightmares, and hyperarousal after reassignment to unfamiliar COVID-19 administrative duties. During inpatient treatment in 2021, EMDR was applied to early family-related memories in routine care, whereas occupational memories were deferred and later remained symptomatically active. Symptoms persisted despite pharmacotherapy and two courses of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. Between June and October 2025, she received six outpatient EMDR sessions targeting occupational memories related to citizen complaints, procedural ambiguity, and workplace conflict. Scores on the Posttraumatic Diagnostic Scale for DSM-5, PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, and Impact of Event Scale-Revised decreased from 31, 32, and 25 in June 2025 to 12, 11, and 7 in December 2025, respectively. Available session-level records suggested reduced distress in documented target assessments, although ratings were not recorded uniformly across sessions. This case illustrates the clinical relevance of assessing occupational memories as possible contributors to persistent trauma-related symptoms after administrative redeployment.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Kanai, K., & Tagami, S. (2026). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for occupational memories associated with prolonged depressive and trauma-related symptoms after COVID-10 administrative redeployment: A public health nurse case report. Industrial Health, Online Early. https://doi.org/10.2486/indhealth.2026-0050