Document Detail


Minimizing the effect of TBI-related physical sequelae on vocational return.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  20104410     Owner:  NLM     Status:  MEDLINE    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
This article evaluated the common physical sequelae that affect return to work (RTW) after traumatic brain injury (TBI). We performed a Medline search and evaluation of current TBI rehabilitation texts. The information presented is a combination of published literature and clinical guidelines. The limitations faced by many patients with TBI can best be overcome through clever job search, job redesign, and community linkages with business and industry that are willing to partner in helping the patient with TBI regain employment. The physician plays a key role in communicating suggestions to the vocational specialist. The comorbidities described represent challenges to successful RTW. These problems are recurrent, long-term, and clearly affect job procurement, nature of job, level of required support, and likelihood of job retention. Conversely, these challenges should not be viewed as impenetrable obstacles. With appropriate supports such as compensatory strategies, job coaching, assistive technology, medical management, and job restructuring, successful RTW is viable option. Physicians must focus on employment outcomes in real jobs and not settle for volunteer work, sheltered work, or assessment and planning. Individuals should be placed in real work for real pay. Through close collaboration between the survivor of TBI, the physician, the vocational specialist, and community resources, successful employment for survivors of TBI is possible and must be prescribed a high value.
Authors:
Shane McNamee; William Walker; David X Cifu; Paul H Wehman
Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article; Review    
Journal Detail:
Title:  Journal of rehabilitation research and development     Volume:  46     ISSN:  1938-1352     ISO Abbreviation:  J Rehabil Res Dev     Publication Date:  2009  
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2010-01-27     Completed Date:  2010-05-26     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  8410047     Medline TA:  J Rehabil Res Dev     Country:  United States    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  893-908     Citation Subset:  IM    
Affiliation:
Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Richmond VAMC, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Attn 117, Richmond, VA 23249, USA. shane.mcnamee@va.gov
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MeSH Terms
Descriptor/Qualifier:
Brain Injuries / complications*,  rehabilitation*
Employment
Humans
Post-Concussion Syndrome / rehabilitation*
Rehabilitation, Vocational*

From MEDLINE®/PubMed®, a database of the U.S. National Library of Medicine


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