09 Nov Level 5 and 6 Traumatic Brain Injury Management
Level 5 and 6 Traumatic Brain Injury Management
In these levels the person is often confused but no longer irritable or agitated. Simple commands can be can be followed with relative consistency. Gradually increasing the demands of the rehabilitation as well as retaining a stable structure, framework and environment both improve progress.
Carryover and memory from session to session improves as well as the recognition of the healthcare professional, location and tasks. It is still important to slowly progress new learning. At this stage a more formal physiotherapy assessment is much more realistic with modifications as required.
It is important to keep instruction simple, brief and concise and like all rehabilitation, the short-term fatigue and long-term recovery of the person must be at the forefront of the healthcare professional’s mind.
Goals:
- Improve persons enjoyment of rehabilitation
- Increase range of motion
- Improve physical conditioning, strength and endurance
- Improve functionality and mobility
Treatment:
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Maintain Structure:
Optimal performance is still best placed in a structured, safe environment. Even down to the people present, times and days of appointments etc., when they remain relatively stable performance has been shown to improve.
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Keep Instructions Simple:
To keep the person relaxed and reduce confusion and irritation simple instructions are helpful. Allow time for processing and speak slowly. Use exercises and tasks that are familiar and enjoyable where possible. It is also important that safety is a priority.
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Use Physical Props
A clock to monitor the session and also to evaluate fatigue both during the session and over time is very helpful. Discussing active and rest periods has been shown to be very helpful to provide stability. Use charts and video to monitor progress and discuss this regularly for positivity.