Caring for Patients with Traumatic Brain Injuries
2023-04-19 06:51:02By Admin
Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) are a major cause of death and disability globally. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), TBIs, which are caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head that disrupts the normal function of the brain, account for approximately 2.5 million emergency department visits, 282,000 hospitalizations, and 52,000 deaths in the U.S. every year.
Patients who suffer from a traumatic brain injury may be subject to long-term memory impairments, physical impairments, sensory loss, cognitive deficits, personality changes, and emotional disturbances. The care of these patients requires a multidisciplinary approach and is among the most complex medical challenges.
The acute management of a patient with a traumatic brain injury consists of assessing for airway protection, breathing, circulation, neurological status, and identification and treatment of any other life-threatening conditions. This must be followed by appropriate imaging techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) scan. Following this, a detailed neurological examination is conducted, including assessment of level of consciousness, eye movements, pupillary responses, motor activity, and reflex activity.
In the rehabilitation phase, occupational therapy and speech therapy are often necessary to help the patient regain lost skills. Physical therapy may be necessary to help the patient with balance, strength, and coordination. A cognitive rehabilitation specialist can help address problems with attention, memory, problem-solving, organization, communication, and more. In addition, psychotherapy may be beneficial in helping the patient deal with any feelings of depression, anxiety, and anger that may have arisen after suffering a traumatic brain injury.
Caregivers and family members must also be aware of the risk of secondary problems for the patient. These can include seizures, hydrocephalus, pseudomotor cerebri, post-traumatic headaches, post-concussion syndrome, and various psychological issues. Early recognition and treatment of these secondary conditions will help to alleviate the patients suffering and optimize their recovery.
By understanding the initial management, rehabilitation, and secondary conditions associated with traumatic brain injuries, healthcare professionals can provide better quality of care for their patients with TBIs and improve their overall quality of life.