1
|
Wittine L, Ketchum J, Silva MA, Hammond F, Chung JS, Loyo K, Lezama J, Nakase-Richardson R. Mortality among Veterans following Traumatic Brain Injury: A VA Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems Study. J Neurotrauma 2024. [PMID: 38959125 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2024.0043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Few studies have examined long-term mortality following traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a military population. This is a secondary analysis of a prospective, longitudinal study that examines long-term mortality (up to 10 years) post-TBI, including analyses of life expectancy, causes of death and risk factors for death in service members and veterans (SM/V) who survived the acute TBI and inpatient rehabilitation. Among 922 participants in the study, the mortality rate was 8.3% following discharge from inpatient rehabilitation. The mean age of death was 54.5 years, with death occurring on average 3.2 years after injury, and with an average 7-year life expectancy reduction. SM/V with TBI were nearly 4 times more likely to die compared with the US general population. Leading causes of death were external causes of injury, circulatory disease, and respiratory disorders. Also notable were deaths due to late effects of TBI itself and suicide. Falls were a significant mechanism of injury for those who died. Those who died were also more likely to be older at injury, unemployed, non-active duty status, not currently married, and had longer post-traumatic amnesia, longer rehabilitation stays, worse independence and disability scores at rehabilitation discharge, and a history of mental health issues prior to injury. These findings indicate that higher disability and less social supportive infrastructure are associated with higher mortality. Our investigation into the vulnerabilities underlying premature mortality and into the major causes of death may help target future prevention, surveillance, and monitoring interventions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Wittine
- James A Haley Veterans Hospital, 13000 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Tampa, Florida, United States, 33612-4745
- AdventHealth West Florida, 3100 E. Fletcher Ave, Tampa, Florida, United States, 33613;
| | | | - Marc A Silva
- James A Haley Veterans Hospital, MHBSS, 13000 Bruce B Downs Blvd, Psychology 116-B, Tampa, Florida, United States, 33612
- University of South Florida, Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, Tampa, Florida, United States;
| | | | - Joyce S Chung
- Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Polytrauma, 3801 Miranda Ave, Palo Alto, California, United States, 94304;
| | - Karina Loyo
- VA James A Haley Hospital, Tampa, Florida, United States;
| | - Jose Lezama
- VA James A Haley Hospital, Tampa, Florida, United States;
| | - Risa Nakase-Richardson
- James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, MHBS, 13000 Bruce B. Downs Boulevard, 116B, Tampa, Florida, United States, 33612;
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kendrick D, Lindley R, Blackburn L, Roadevin C, Thompson E, Andrews I, Anwar F, Brooks A, Carlton E, Crouch R, Day F, Fallon S, Farrin A, Graham L, Hoffman K, Howell R, Holmes J, James M, Jones T, Kellezi B, Kettlewell J, Morriss R, das Nair R, Richardson D, Smith M, Timmons S, Wright-Hughes A, Radford K. Early vocational rehabilitation and psychological support for trauma patients to improve return to work (the ROWTATE trial): study protocol for an individually randomised controlled multicentre pragmatic trial. Trials 2024; 25:439. [PMID: 38956682 PMCID: PMC11221047 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-024-08183-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Moderately severe or major trauma (injury severity score (ISS) > 8) is common, often resulting in physical and psychological problems and leading to difficulties in returning to work. Vocational rehabilitation (VR) can improve return to work/education in some injuries (e.g. traumatic brain and spinal cord injury), but evidence is lacking for other moderately severe or major trauma. METHODS ROWTATE is an individually randomised controlled multicentre pragmatic trial of early VR and psychological support in trauma patients. It includes an internal pilot, economic evaluation, a process evaluation and an implementation study. Participants will be screened for eligibility and recruited within 12 weeks of admission to eight major trauma centres in England. A total of 722 participants with ISS > 8 will be randomised 1:1 to VR and psychological support (where needed, following psychological screening) plus usual care or to usual care alone. The ROWTATE VR intervention will be provided within 2 weeks of study recruitment by occupational therapists and where needed, by clinical psychologists. It will be individually tailored and provided for ≤ 12 months, dependent on participant need. Baseline assessment will collect data on demographics, injury details, work/education status, cognitive impairment, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic distress, disability, recovery expectations, financial stress and health-related quality of life. Participants will be followed up by postal/telephone/online questionnaires at 3, 6 and 12 months post-randomisation. The primary objective is to establish whether the ROWTATE VR intervention plus usual care is more effective than usual care alone for improving participants' self-reported return to work/education for at least 80% of pre-injury hours at 12 months post-randomisation. Secondary outcomes include other work outcomes (e.g. hours of work/education, time to return to work/education, sickness absence), depression, anxiety, post-traumatic distress, work self-efficacy, financial stress, purpose in life, health-related quality of life and healthcare/personal resource use. The process evaluation and implementation study will be described elsewhere. DISCUSSION This trial will provide robust evidence regarding a VR intervention for a major trauma population. Evidence of a clinically and cost-effective VR intervention will be important for commissioners and providers to enable adoption of VR services for this large and important group of patients within the NHS. TRIAL REGISTRATION ISRCTN: 43115471. Registered 27/07/2021.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Denise Kendrick
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK.
| | - Rebecca Lindley
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Lauren Blackburn
- East Midlands Major Trauma Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Cristina Roadevin
- Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Ellen Thompson
- Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Isabel Andrews
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Fahim Anwar
- Cambridge University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, UK
| | - Adam Brooks
- East Midlands Major Trauma Centre, Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Edd Carlton
- North Bristol NHS Trust Southmead Hospital, Southmead Road, Westbury-On-Trym, Bristol, BS10 5NB, UK
| | - Robert Crouch
- University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Tremona Road, Southampton, S016 6YD, UK
| | - Florence Day
- Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Steve Fallon
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Amanda Farrin
- Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Laura Graham
- Royal Victoria Infirmary, Queen Victoria Road, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE1 4LP, UK
| | - Karen Hoffman
- Centre for Trauma Sciences, Barts Health NHS Trust and Queen Mary University London, Blizard Institute, 4 Newark St, London, E1 2AT, UK
| | - Rebekah Howell
- Leeds Institute of Clinical Trials Research, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - Jain Holmes
- Centre for Rehabilitation & Ageing Research (CRAR), Injury, Recovery Sciences and Inflammation (IRIS), School of Medicine, Medical School, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| | - Marilyn James
- Nottingham Clinical Trials Unit, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Trevor Jones
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Blerina Kellezi
- Department of Psychology, Nottingham Trent University, 50 Shakespeare Street, Nottingham, NG1 4FQ, UK
| | - Jade Kettlewell
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University Park, Nottingham, NG7 2RD, UK
| | - Richard Morriss
- Institute of Mental Health, Innovation Park, Triumph Road, Nottingham, NG7 2TU, UK
| | | | - Davina Richardson
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, The Bays, South Wharf Road, London, W2 1NY, UK
| | - Matthew Smith
- Academic Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Leeds General Infirmary, Leeds, LS1 3EX, UK
| | - Stephen Timmons
- Centre for Health Innovation, Leadership and Learning, Nottingham University Business School, Nottingham, NG8 1BB, UK
| | | | - Kathryn Radford
- Centre for Rehabilitation & Ageing Research (CRAR), Injury, Recovery Sciences and Inflammation (IRIS), School of Medicine, Medical School, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, UK
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Gnall KE, Sacco SJ, Park CL, Mazure CM, Hoff RA. Life meaning and mental health in post-9/11 veterans: the mediating role of perceived stress. ANXIETY, STRESS, AND COPING 2023; 36:743-756. [PMID: 36542555 DOI: 10.1080/10615806.2022.2154341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES Post-9/11 veterans frequently experience diminished mental health following military service. Life meaning is related to better mental health in veterans, yet its mechanism of action is unknown. A meaning-making model suggests that life meaning can reduce perceived stress, thus enhancing mental health. The present study tested this meaning-making model by predicting multiple dimensions of mental health (i.e., symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder, anxiety, insomnia, and depression, and mental health quality of life) from life meaning as mediated by perceived stress. DESIGN AND METHODS The present study was a secondary analysis of a 12-month observational study of 367 post-9/11 veterans. Participants completed demographic and health surveys at baseline, 6-month, and 12-month follow-ups. A multivariate mediation model was created predicting changes in dimensions of mental health from 6 months to 12 months. RESULTS Higher life meaning at baseline predicted changes in all dimensions of mental health between 6 and 12 months, an effect mediated by changes in perceived stress between baseline and 6 months. CONCLUSIONS Across dimensions of mental health, the meaning-making model was supported. Understanding post-9/11 veteran mental health from this theoretical perspective may help better tailor healthcare efforts and enhance veteran health overall.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Katherine E Gnall
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Shane J Sacco
- Department of Statistics, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Crystal L Park
- Department of Psychological Sciences, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Carolyn M Mazure
- Department of Psychiatry, Women's Health Research at YaleYale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Rani A Hoff
- Northeast Program Evaluation Center (NEPEC), VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dodson MB, Kyi M, Percy TLM, Wadley M, Deeker K, Matheson LN. Use of item response theory to develop a return to work measure for acquired brain injury: The employment feasibility checklist. Work 2023; 74:137-151. [PMID: 36214016 DOI: 10.3233/wor-211055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The 2001 Feasibility Evaluation Checklist (FEC) is an assessment of work readiness for individuals with acquired brain injury (ABI). It establishes the integrity of basic safety, productivity, and interpersonal factors in neurorehabilitation and vocational settings. This study represents an effort to further develop the FEC to increase its clinical utility. OBJECTIVE To redesign the FEC by conducting Item Response Theory (IRT) analyses on the study's results and combining those mathematical calibrations with clinical expert judgement. The result will be a new measure for use in clinical ABI neurorehabilitation and vocational settings: the Employment Feasibility Checklist (EFC). METHODS Seven participants with ABI were administered a situational assessment on multiple occasions by occupational therapists in a community rehabilitation clinic. The FEC was used to assess the participant's performance across three areas of basic employment feasibility: safety, productivity, and interpersonal factors. Results were analyzed with IRT-Rasch analysis and then subjected to clinical expert judgment, resulting in adjustment recommendations for the FEC. RESULTS In this scale development study, IRT analysis of results from 89 observation trials was combined with expert clinical judgment resulting in a redesigned tool with increased clinical utility for persons with ABI. The EFC is a 12-item observational rating scale for employment feasibility constructs of Productivity and Interpersonal Relations, with an additional six-item Workplace Safety subsection. CONCLUSION The EFC is a mathematically calibrated tool designed to gauge feasibility for competitive employment in clients with ABI. The tool may be useful in clinical neurorehabilitation settings and vocational rehabilitation settings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Min Kyi
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | | | - Kelly Deeker
- Deeker Evaluation Services, LLC, Caseyville, IL, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Bennett K, Dillahunt-Aspillaga C, Lasley C, Trexler LC, Schmeeckle W, Walker-Egea C, Gonzalez CM, Trexler LE. Traumatic brain injury vocational rehabilitation counselor competencies: Implications for training and practice. JOURNAL OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION 2022. [DOI: 10.3233/jvr-221198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: The Administration for Community Living (ACL) TBI State Partnership Program grants support states by providing funding to build capacity and infrastructure to support and maintain a system of services and supports to maximize the independence, well-being, and health of persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI). A Transition and Employment (T&E) workgroup identified competencies needed by Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors (VRC) to support people with TBI to obtain and maintain employment. OBJECTIVE: To: (1) identify self-perceived VRC TBI competence and (2) inform individual state VR training activities and competency goals. METHODS: A self-assessment online survey was employed. RESULTS: A total of 269 VR professionals across four states completed the VRC Self-Assessment between December 2020 and February 2021. The T&E workgroup identified TBI competencies across four domains (1) brain injury medical and rehabilitation, (2) employment, (3) state and local systems, resources, and service coordination, and (4) national systems, research and best practice. The results by TBI competency and the overall score for all participants show that state and local systems, resources, and service coordination is the highest area of competency, placing them close to the proficient level of knowledge. CONCLUSIONS: Future VR education and training opportunities may be informed by the results of this study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Keri Bennett
- Program Director for Acquired Brain Injury, Nebraska VR, Nebraska Department of Education, Kearney, NE, USA
| | - Christina Dillahunt-Aspillaga
- Rehabilitation and Mental Health CounselingProgram, Child and Family Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Carla Lasley
- Program Director of CommunityServices, Nebraska VR, Nebraska Department of Education, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Laura C. Trexler
- ACL Grant Clinical Program Manager, Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | | | - Connie Walker-Egea
- Senior Social and Behavioral Researcher, Department of Child and Family Studies, College of Behavioral andCommunity Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Cristina M. Gonzalez
- Doctoral Student, Counseling and CounselorEducation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Lance E. Trexler
- Consulting Rehabilitation Neuropsychologist, Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana, Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Department of Physical Medicine andRehabilitation, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Bernstein JPK, Sevigny M, Novack TA, Dreer LE, Chung J, Lamberty GJ, Finn JA. Predictors of Driving Status in Service Members and Veterans at 1 Year Posttraumatic Brain Injury: A VA TBI Model Systems Study. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2021; 36:437-446. [PMID: 33741826 DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify predictors of driving status in service members and veterans 1 year following a traumatic brain injury (TBI). SETTING The 5 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers (PRCs). PARTICIPANTS A total of 471 service members and veterans (128 with mild/complicated mild TBI and 343 with moderate/severe TBI) who received TBI-focused inpatient rehabilitation at one of the VA PRCs and who participated in a 1-year postinjury follow-up assessment. DESIGN Secondary analysis from the Department of Veterans Affairs Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems (VA PRC TBIMS) national database. MAIN MEASURES Primary outcome was a single item that assessed driving status at 1 year postinjury. Predictor variables included demographics; sensory impairment, substance use, and employment status at time of injury; PTSD symptoms reported at study enrollment; and functional impairment rated at rehabilitation discharge. RESULTS In unadjusted bivariate analyses, among those with a mild/complicated mild TBI, older age and greater functional impairment were associated with lower likelihood of driving. Among those with a moderate/severe TBI, discharge to a nonprivate residence, greater functional impairment, and higher PTSD symptoms were linked to lower likelihood of driving. Adjusted multivariate analyses indicated that functional impairment was uniquely associated with driving status in both TBI severity groups. After controlling for other predictors, self-reported PTSD symptoms, particularly dysphoria symptoms, were associated with lower likelihood of driving in both severity groups. CONCLUSION Given the significance of clinician-rated functional impairment and self-reported PTSD symptoms to the prediction of driving status 1 year post-TBI among service members and veterans, rehabilitation efforts to improve functioning and reduce negative affect may have a positive impact on driving and community integration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- John P K Bernstein
- Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge (Mr Bernstein); Mental Health Service Line (Mr Bernstein and Dr Lamberty) and Extended Care and Rehabilitation (Dr Finn), Minneapolis Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Minneapolis, Minnesota; TBI Model Systems National Data and Statistical Center, Craig Hospital, Englewood, Colorado (Mr Sevigny); Departments of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (Dr Novack) and Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (Dr Dreer), University of Alabama-Birmingham School of Medicine; Polytrauma System of Care and Rehabilitation Services, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, California (Dr Chung); and Department of Psychiatry, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis (Dr Finn)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pugh MJ, Kennedy E, Gugger JJ, Mayo J, Tate D, Swan A, Kean J, Altalib H, Gowda S, Towne A, Hinds S, Van Cott A, Lopez MR, Jaramillo CA, Eapen BC, McCafferty RR, Salinsky M, Cramer J, McMillan KK, Kalvesmaki A, Diaz-Arrastia R. The Military Injuries: Understanding Post-Traumatic Epilepsy Study: Understanding Relationships among Lifetime Traumatic Brain Injury History, Epilepsy, and Quality of Life. J Neurotrauma 2021; 38:2841-2850. [PMID: 34353118 PMCID: PMC8820288 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2021.0015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Understanding risk for epilepsy among persons who sustain a mild (mTBI) traumatic brain injury (TBI) is crucial for effective intervention and prevention. However, mTBI is frequently undocumented or poorly documented in health records. Further, health records are non-continuous, such as when persons move through health systems (e.g., from Department of Defense to Veterans Affairs [VA] or between jobs in the civilian sector), making population-based assessments of this relationship challenging. Here, we introduce the MINUTE (Military INjuries-Understanding post-Traumatic Epilepsy) study, which integrates data from the Veterans Health Administration with self-report survey data for post-9/11 veterans (n = 2603) with histories of TBI, epilepsy and controls without a history of TBI or epilepsy. This article describes the MINUTE study design, implementation, hypotheses, and initial results across four groups of interest for neurotrauma: 1) control; 2) epilepsy; 3) TBI; and 4) post-traumatic epilepsy (PTE). Using combined survey and health record data, we test hypotheses examining lifetime history of TBI and the differential impacts of TBI, epilepsy, and PTE on quality of life. The MINUTE study revealed high rates of undocumented lifetime TBIs among veterans with epilepsy who had no evidence of TBI in VA medical records. Further, worse physical functioning and health-related quality of life were found for persons with epilepsy + TBI compared to those with either epilepsy or TBI alone. This effect was not fully explained by TBI severity. These insights provide valuable opportunities to optimize the resilience, delivery of health services, and community reintegration of veterans with TBI and complex comorbidity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mary Jo Pugh
- VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Eamonn Kennedy
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - James J. Gugger
- Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jamie Mayo
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - David Tate
- VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Alicia Swan
- Department of Psychology, University of Texas San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Jacob Kean
- VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Hamada Altalib
- Epilepsy Center of Excellence VA Connecticut Health Care System, West Haven, Connecticut, USA; Departments of Neurology and Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine, West Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Shaila Gowda
- Department of Neurology, Baylor School of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Alan Towne
- Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, Richmond, Virginia, USA; Department of Neurology, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Sidney Hinds
- Department of Neurology, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Anne Van Cott
- VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Maria R. Lopez
- Miami VA Health Care System, Miami, Florida, USA; Department of Neurology, University of Miami School of Medicine, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Carlos A. Jaramillo
- Polytrauma Rehabilitation Center, South Texas Veterans Healthcare System, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Blessen C. Eapen
- VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Los Angeles, California, USA; University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | - Martin Salinsky
- VA Portland Healthcare System, Portland, Oregon, USA; Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, Oregon, USA
| | - Joyce Cramer
- Department of Neurology, Baylor School of Medicine, Houston, Texas, USA
- Cramer Consulting, Houston, Texas, USA
| | | | - Andrea Kalvesmaki
- VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Ramon Diaz-Arrastia
- Department of Neurology, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Richard P, Patel N, Gedeon D, Hyppolite R, Younis M. Common Symptoms of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Work Functioning of Active-Duty Service Members with a History of Deployment. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18158079. [PMID: 34360372 PMCID: PMC8345698 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18158079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study used data from the Military Health System Data Repository to examine the association between mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) and work functioning such as work duty limitations, hospital emergency room visits and inpatient admissions for active-duty service members (ADSMs). Further, this study assessed the role that common symptoms of mTBI play in work functioning. Multivariate results showed that having a mTBI diagnosis is not a major factor that results in being "released with work duty limitations". However, findings from these regression models also showed that the interaction of mTBI with cognitive and linguistic symptoms resulted in odds of 3.63 (CI: 1.40-9.36, p < 0.01) for being "released with work duty limitations" and odds of 4.98 (CI: 1.16-21.39, p < 0.05) for having any emergency department visits compared to those with no diagnosis of mTBI and none of these symptoms. Additionally, the interaction of mTBI with sleep disturbance and chronic pain showed odds of 2.72 (CI: 1.31-5.65, p < 0.01) and odds of 11.56 (CI: 2.65-50.44, p < 0.01) for being "released with work duty limitations" compared to those with no diagnosis of TBI and none of these symptoms, respectively. Further research is needed to investigate the association between mTBI and duration of time off work to provide a comprehensive understanding of the effect of mTBI on work functioning in the Military Health System.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Richard
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Biostatistics, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +1-301-295-9770
| | - Nilam Patel
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA; (N.P.); (D.G.); (R.H.)
| | - Daniel Gedeon
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA; (N.P.); (D.G.); (R.H.)
| | - Regine Hyppolite
- The Henry M. Jackson Foundation for the Advancement of Military Medicine, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA; (N.P.); (D.G.); (R.H.)
| | - Mustafa Younis
- Department of Health Policy and Management, School of Public Health, Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217, USA;
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Fure SCR, Howe EI, Andelic N, Brunborg C, Sveen U, Røe C, Rike PO, Olsen A, Spjelkavik Ø, Ugelstad H, Lu J, Ponsford J, Twamley EW, Hellstrøm T, Løvstad M. Cognitive and vocational rehabilitation after mild-to-moderate traumatic brain injury: A randomised controlled trial. Ann Phys Rehabil Med 2021; 64:101538. [PMID: 33957293 DOI: 10.1016/j.rehab.2021.101538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 02/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Returning to work is often a primary rehabilitation goal after traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, the evidence base for treatment options regarding return to work (RTW) and stable work maintenance remains scarce. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to examine the effect of a combined cognitive and vocational intervention on work-related outcomes after mild-to-moderate TBI. METHODS In this study, we compared 6 months of a combined compensatory cognitive training and supported employment (CCT-SE) intervention with 6 months of treatment as usual (TAU) in a randomised controlled trial to examine the effect on time to RTW, work percentage, hours worked per week and work stability. Eligible patients were those with mild-to-moderate TBI who were employed ≥50% at the time of injury, 18 to 60 years old and sick-listed ≥50% at 8 to 12 weeks after injury due to post-concussion symptoms, assessed by the Rivermead Post Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire. Both treatments were provided at the outpatient TBI department at Oslo University Hospital, and follow-ups were conducted at 3, 6 and 12 months after inclusion. RESULTS We included 116 individuals, 60 randomised to CCT-SE and 56 to TAU. The groups did not differ in characteristics at the 12-month follow-up. Overall, a high proportion had returned to work at 12 months (CCT-SE, 90%; TAU, 84%, P=0.40), and all except 3 were stably employed after the RTW. However, a significantly higher proportion of participants in the CCT-SE than TAU group had returned to stable employment at 3 months (81% vs. 60%, P=0.02). CONCLUSION These results suggest that the CCT-SE intervention might help patients with mild-to-moderate TBI who are still sick-listed 8 to 12 weeks after injury in an earlier return to stable employment. However, the results should be replicated and a cost-benefit analysis performed before concluding.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Silje C R Fure
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Centre for Habilitation and Rehabilitation Models and Services (CHARM), Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Emilie Isager Howe
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Nada Andelic
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Centre for Habilitation and Rehabilitation Models and Services (CHARM), Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cathrine Brunborg
- Oslo Centre for Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Research Support Services, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Unni Sveen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cecilie Røe
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Research Centre for Habilitation and Rehabilitation Models and Services (CHARM), Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Per-Ola Rike
- Department of Research, Sunnaas Rehabilitation Hospital Trust, Nesoddtangen, Norway
| | - Alexander Olsen
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Technology and Science, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | | | - Helene Ugelstad
- Department of Vocational Rehabilitation, Norwegian Labor and Welfare Administration, Oslo, Norway
| | - Juan Lu
- Research Centre for Habilitation and Rehabilitation Models and Services (CHARM), Institute of Health and Society, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Jennie Ponsford
- Monash Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Elizabeth W Twamley
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Affairs (VA) San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA; Department of Psychiatry, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Torgeir Hellstrøm
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marianne Løvstad
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Oslo Metropolitan University, Oslo, Norway; Department of Psychology, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Vocational Rehabilitation in the Veterans Health Administration Polytrauma System of Care: Current Practices, Unique Challenges, and Future Directions. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2020; 34:158-166. [PMID: 31058758 DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE/PURPOSE Veterans and service members (V/SMs) with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and comorbid conditions are treated in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) Polytrauma System of Care (PSC). These V/SMs comprise a unique population with distinct needs for restoring community reintegration, including participation in meaningful employment. Low employment rates after TBI vary and are influenced by many factors. Employment is a central aspect of the VHA priority of facilitating adjustment, and addressing vocational needs alongside healthcare is critical to community reintegration. The purpose of this article is to outline current practices of addressing vocational rehabilitation in the PSC, discuss the unique challenges in serving Veterans with polytrauma, and outline future directions to improve vocational services and outcomes. METHODS Briefly review literature on V/SM with TBI and employment, describe the PSC and VHA vocational programs for V/SM with polytrauma, and synthesize proceedings on vocational rehabilitation from the 2017 VHA "Community Reintegration in the Polytrauma System of Care" meeting. CONCLUSIONS To advance and expand vocational services the following guidelines were recommended: (1) designing flexible services based on individualized needs, (2) increasing access to vocational services through communication and collaboration, (3) promoting cross-disciplinary education and engagement in vocational care, and (4) systematically tracking employment outcomes.
Collapse
|
11
|
Merritt VC, Jurick SM, Crocker LD, Keller AV, Hoffman SN, Jak AJ. Factors associated with employment and work perception in combat-exposed veterans. Rehabil Psychol 2020; 65:279-290. [PMID: 32297778 PMCID: PMC8409174 DOI: 10.1037/rep0000323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE/OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was 2-fold: (a) to evaluate whether perception of work ability is associated with employment status in a sample of combat-exposed veterans, and (b) to determine whether the same sets of variables that are associated with employment status are also associated with perception of work ability. Research Method/Design: In this cross-sectional study, veterans (N = 83) underwent a neuropsychological assessment and completed questionnaires assessing demographic characteristics, combat-related experiences, and psychiatric and neurobehavioral/health-related symptoms. Primary outcomes of interest were employment status (unemployed vs. employed) and veterans' perception of whether their ability to work has declined due to an ongoing condition (yes vs. no). RESULTS A chi-square analysis revealed a significant relationship between perception of work ability and employment status. Additionally, psychiatric and neurobehavioral/health-related symptoms were associated with employment status and perception of work ability, whereas demographic characteristics (i.e., service-connected disability rating) and combat-related experiences (i.e., mTBI history) were only associated with perception of work ability. Objective cognitive functioning was not associated with employment status or perception of work ability. CONCLUSIONS/IMPLICATIONS Although preliminary, results suggest that perception of work ability is an important factor to consider when evaluating employment-related outcomes in veterans. Moreover, results indicate that while there is some overlap among the variables associated with employment status and perception of work ability, additional variables are linked with perception of work ability. Taken together, these findings suggest that perception of one's ability to work and factors that influence it may be particularly important treatment targets in the veteran population. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2020 APA, all rights reserved).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Sarah M. Jurick
- VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, USA
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Laura D. Crocker
- VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, USA
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | | | - Amy J. Jak
- VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, USA
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Kornblith E, Posecion L, Abrams G, Chen AJW, Burciaga J, D'Esposito M, Novakovic-Agopian T. Long-Term Effect of Cognitive Rehabilitation Regardless of Prerehabilitation Cognitive Status for Veterans with TBI. APPLIED NEUROPSYCHOLOGY-ADULT 2019; 28:436-448. [PMID: 31456428 DOI: 10.1080/23279095.2019.1652174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Persisting difficulties in executive functioning (EF) are common after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Cognitive rehabilitation can be effective, but the impact of pretreatment neurocognitive functioning on long term effects of rehabilitation is unknown. Because this information can impact treatment planning, we examined the relationship between prerehabilitation neurocognitive status and long-term effects of EF training. Archival data were drawn from a trial of Goal-Oriented Attentional Self-Regulation group-format EF training for Veterans with TBI [mild-severe; 11 years postinjury; 96% male, 32% nonwhite, 14.21 years education (SD 1.72), 41.13 years old (SD 11.39)]. Using prerehabilitation neurocognitive performance, participants were clustered into cognitive difficulty (CD) and cognitively normal (CN) groups. Six-plus months after EF rehabilitation training, participants completed a structured telephone interview and/or in-person cognitive/functional/emotional assessment using standardized measures of cognitive, daily, and emotional functioning frequently employed in TBI research. At 6+ months post-EF training compared to prerehabilitation, CD and CN improved in multiple cognitive (Overall Attention/EF: F(1,18) = 26.17, partial η2 = .59; Total Memory: F(1,18) = 6.82, partial η2 = .28) and functional domains (Goal Processing Scale [GPS] total score: F(1,15) = 6.71, partial η2 = .31). CD improved more than CN on Learning and Memory functional domain [F(1,15) = 6.10, partial η2 = .29]. Results of our small archival analysis raise the possibility that Veterans with chronic TBI may demonstrate long-term effects of EF training.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Erica Kornblith
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Lainie Posecion
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Gary Abrams
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA.,University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Anthony J-W Chen
- University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.,Rehabilitation, Veterans Affairs Northern California Health Care System, Martinez, CA, USA.,University of California, Berkeley: Berkeley, CA
| | - Joaquin Burciaga
- University of California, Berkeley: Berkeley, CA.,Children's Health Council, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Mark D'Esposito
- Children's Health Council, Palo Alto, CA, USA.,Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California Berkeley, Berkeley, CA, USA
| | - Tatjana Novakovic-Agopian
- San Francisco Veterans Affairs Medical Center, San Francisco, CA, USA.,University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Gormley M, Devanaboyina M, Andelic N, Røe C, Seel RT, Lu J. Long-term employment outcomes following moderate to severe traumatic brain injury: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Brain Inj 2019; 33:1567-1580. [PMID: 31454278 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2019.1658222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Background: Returning to employment following moderate to severe traumatic brain injury (msTBI) is critical for a survivor's well-being, yet currently there are no systematic reviews that comprehensively describe employment outcomes following msTBI. The objective of this study was to systematically synthesize literature on employment outcomes following msTBI.Methods: Original studies published through April 2018 on MEDLINE/PubMed, PsychINFO, and CINAHL were eligible if the objective was to investigate employment outcomes following msTBI; outcome was measured ≥1 year; participants were ≥15; and size was ≥60. Post-injury employment prevalence and return to pre-injury level of work were summarized through meta-analysis.Results: Of 38 eligible studies, post-injury employment prevalence was most often reported (n = 35), followed by job stability (n = 6), and return to pre-injury level of work (n = 4). Overall post-injury employment prevalence was 42.2%; whereas the return-to-previous-work prevalence was 33.0%. Post-injury employment prevalence appeared to increase over time, from 34.9% at 1 year to 42.1% up to 5 years and 49.9% beyond 5 years.Conclusion: Nearly half of individuals with msTBI were employed post-injury, yet only a third returned to pre-injury level of work. Future researchers are recommended to standardize employment outcome measures to enable better comparison of outcomes across studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mirinda Gormley
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Monika Devanaboyina
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Nada Andelic
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Health and Society, Research Centre for Habilitation and Rehabilitation Models and Services (CHARM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Cecilie Røe
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Institute of Health and Society, Research Centre for Habilitation and Rehabilitation Models and Services (CHARM), Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Ronald T Seel
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - Juan Lu
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, Division of Epidemiology and Community Health, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Merritt VC, Jurick SM, Crocker LD, Hoffman SN, Keller AV, DeFord N, Jak AJ. Evaluation of objective and subjective clinical outcomes in combat veterans with and without mild TBI and PTSD: A four-group design. J Clin Exp Neuropsychol 2019; 41:665-679. [DOI: 10.1080/13803395.2019.1610161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria C. Merritt
- Psychology Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sarah M. Jurick
- Psychology Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, USA
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Laura D. Crocker
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Amber V. Keller
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Nicole DeFord
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Amy J. Jak
- Psychology Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, USA
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Winter L, Moriarty H, Robinson K. Employment Status Among U.S. Military Veterans With Traumatic Brain Injury: Mediation Analyses and the Goal of Tertiary Prevention. Front Neurol 2019; 10:190. [PMID: 30930830 PMCID: PMC6428699 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2019.00190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
For most individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI), the ability to work is crucial to financial and psychological well-being. TBI produces a wide range of cognitive, physical, emotional, and interpersonal impairments that may undermine the ability to work. Employment is therefore a primary goal of TBI rehabilitation and has been the focus of extensive research. Although this literature has identified predictors of employment outcomes, few studies have examined the mechanisms that underlie these associations. Mediation analysis can identify these mechanisms, provide a more nuanced view of how predictors jointly affect rehabilitation outcomes, and identify predictors that, if treatable conditions, could be useful targets for tertiary prevention. Such efforts are aimed at reducing long-term impairments, disability, or suffering resulting from the injury. The study sample comprised 83 U.S. military veterans with TBI who had participated in a larger rehabilitation study and were interviewed in their homes. Bivariate tests revealed significant associations of employment with pain, cognitive functioning, self-rated health, depressive symptoms and physical functioning; the latter variable was operationalized in two ways—using the Patient Competency Rating Scale and the SF–36V physical functioning subscales. Because these physical functioning measures were highly intercorrelated (r = 0.69, p < 0.0001), separate regression models were conducted. In the hierarchical binary logistic regression models, predictors were entered in order of modifiability, with comorbidities (pain) entered in block 1, physical health/functioning sequelae in block 2, and depressive symptoms in block 3. In the regression using the SF-36V measure of physical functioning, pain's effect was mediated by the physical functioning/health predictors, with only physical functioning emerging as significant, but this effect was itself mediated by depressive symptoms. In the regression using the PCRS physical-function measure, only depressive symptoms emerged as a mediator of other effects. Findings underscore the central role of depression in the employment status of veterans with TBI, suggesting that negative effects of other problems/limitations could be mitigated by more effective treatment of depression. Thus, for many with chronic TBI who live with vocational limitations, outcomes may improve with lower depression. Findings argue for the wider use of mediation approaches in TBI research as a means of identifying targets for tertiary prevention of poor outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laraine Winter
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| | - Helene Moriarty
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States.,M. Louise Fitzpatrick College of Nursing, Villanova University, Villanova, PA, United States
| | - Keith Robinson
- Corporal Michael J. Crescenz VA Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Dillahunt-Aspillaga C, Powell-Cope G. Community Reintegration, Participation, and Employment Issues in Veterans and Service Members With Traumatic Brain Injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2019; 99:S1-S3. [PMID: 29406019 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2017.04.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 04/15/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has been called the signature injury of the post-9/11 wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, and neighboring countries. Although similarities exist between veterans and service members with TBI, levels of severity and different constellations of coexisting comorbid conditions affect them differently. These conditions affect physical, cognitive, and emotional function, which in turn can complicate community reintegration (CR), or the ability to return to family, vocational, and community life. This special supplement of the Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation consists of articles written by accomplished teams from multiple disciplines, including anthropology, neuropsychology, nursing, occupational therapy, psychology, and rehabilitation sciences. Each article brings a different perspective to bear on what CR means for veterans and service members from examination of predictors and perceptions of veterans and service members and others to measurement studies. Collectively, this group of articles represents current thinking about CR and lays the groundwork for testing interventions to improve CR outcomes for veterans and service members (eg, employment, living situation, family life).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Christina Dillahunt-Aspillaga
- Health Services Research and Development Service Center of Innovation on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, FL; Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling Program, Department of Child and Family Studies, College of Behavioral and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
| | - Gail Powell-Cope
- Health Services Research and Development Service Center of Innovation on Disability and Rehabilitation Research, James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, FL.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Silva MA, Dillahunt-Aspillaga C, Patel N, Garofano JS, Martinez KM, Lynn CA, Rechkemmer MB, Nakase-Richardson R. Functional Outcome and Mental Health Symptoms in Military Personnel and Veterans Pursuing Postsecondary Education After Traumatic Brain Injury: A VA TBI Model Systems Study. REHABILITATION RESEARCH, POLICY, AND EDUCATION 2019. [DOI: 10.1891/2168-6653.33.1.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundTBI is a leading cause of disability among veterans and active duty military personnel, and presents an obstacle to community reintegration. Prior studies examining adult survivors of TBI pursuing postsecondary education have methodological flaws that limit the understanding the scope and severity of sequelae experienced by persons with TBI who attend college.ObjectiveTo describe (a) physical and cognitive functioning, and (b) postconcussion and mental health symptoms in veterans and military personnel (V/M) with traumatic brain injury (TBI) enrolled in postsecondary education programs after discharge from rehabilitation.MethodCross-sectional study. Participants were recruited from five Veterans Affairs (VA) Polytrauma Rehabilitation Centers, enrolled in the VA TBI Model Systems parent study, and attending school during follow-up (N= 155). Outcome measures included the Functional Independence Measure (FIM), Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory (NSI), Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Checklist-Civilian version (PCL-C), Patient Health Questionnaire-Depression (PHQ-9), and Generalized Anxiety Disorder Questionnaire (GAD-7).FindingsParticipants were mostly male (92.9%) and White (81.4%), with mild (40.0%), moderate (11.5%), severe (34.5%), or very severe TBI (23.0%). Depression, anxiety, PTSD, and postconcussion symptoms were lowest in participants with very severe TBI and highest in those with mild TBI. There were no significant differences in FIM across TBI severity levels.ConclusionThis study supports the need for rehabilitation counselors, educators, and administrators to prepare future practitioners to deliver tailored services to student V/M with TBI. These services can facilitate successful community reintegration and transition into civilian school settings. Symptom profiling may inform personalized cognitive interventions to enhance these students’ academic success.
Collapse
|
18
|
Wehman P, Avellone L, Pecharka F, Sorboro K, Webster JB, Young C, Barton S, Robbins WA, Clanton ST. Reintegrating Veterans with Polytrauma into the Community and Workplace. Phys Med Rehabil Clin N Am 2018; 30:275-288. [PMID: 30470425 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmr.2018.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
This article addresses employment as a critical part of community reintegration for polytrauma patients. Interdisciplinary polytrauma teams can work to effectively identify and eliminate known barriers to employment for veterans and offer continued support and guidance. This article discusses key themes pertinent to vocational reentry for service members/veterans, identifies evidenced-based employment models, highlights the essential role of everyday technology in meeting support needs, and describes 2 exemplar polytrauma models: the Louis Stokes Cleveland Veteran Affairs Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio, and the Service member Transitional Advanced Rehabilitation (STAR) program at the Hunter Holmes McGuire Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Richmond, Virginia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Paul Wehman
- Division of Rehabilitation Research, Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine, 1314 West Main Street, PO Box 842011, Richmond, VA 23284, USA.
| | - Lauren Avellone
- Rehabilitation Research and Training Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1314 West Main Street, PO Box 842011, Richmond, VA 23284, USA
| | - Frederick Pecharka
- Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 1620 East 105th Street, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Katti Sorboro
- Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center, 10701 East Boulevard, Cleveland, OH 44106, USA
| | - Joseph B Webster
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine at Virginia Commonwealth University, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
| | - Cynthia Young
- Service Member Transitional Advanced Rehabilitation (STAR) Program, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Building 514, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
| | - Sharon Barton
- Service Member Transitional Advanced Rehabilitation (STAR) Program, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Building 514, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
| | - William A Robbins
- Polytrauma Transitional Rehabilitation Program (PTRP), Servicemember Transitional Advanced Rehabilitation (STAR) Program, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, 1201 Broad Rock Boulevard, Building 514, Richmond, VA 23249, USA
| | - Samuel T Clanton
- Traumatic Brain Injury/Polytrauma Fellow, Hunter Holmes McGuire VA Medical Center, Virginia Commonwealth University, 1223 East Marshall Street, PO Box 980677, Richmond, VA 23284-0667, USA
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
McKenzie DP, Downing MG, Ponsford JL. Key Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) items associated with DSM-IV depressive and anxiety disorder 12-months post traumatic brain injury. J Affect Disord 2018; 236:164-171. [PMID: 29738951 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2018.04.092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Anxiety and depression are common problems following traumatic brain injury (TBI), warranting routine screening. Self-report rating scales including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) are associated with depression and anxiety diagnoses in individuals with TBI. The relationship between individual HADS symptoms and structured clinical interview methods (SCID) requires further investigation, particularly in regard to identifying a small number of key items that can potentially be recognised by clinicians and carers of individuals with TBI. METHODS 138 individuals sustaining a complicated-mild to severe TBI completed the HADS, and the Structured Clinical Interview for DSM-IV, Research Version (SCID) at 12-months post-injury. The associations between individual HADS items, separately and in combination, as well as overall depression and anxiety subscale scores, and SCID-diagnosed depressive and anxiety disorders were analysed. RESULTS CART (Classification and Regression Tree) analysis found HADS depression item 2 "I still enjoy the things I used to enjoy" and a combination of two anxiety items, 3 "I get a sort of frightened feeling as if something awful is about to happen" and 5 "worrying thoughts go through my mind", performed similarly to total depression and anxiety subscales in terms of their association with depressive and anxiety disorders respectively, at 12-months post-injury. LIMITATIONS Patients were predominantly injured in motor vehicle accidents and received comprehensive care within a no-fault accident compensation system and so may not be representative of the wider TBI population. CONCLUSIONS Although validation is required, a small number of self-report items are highly associated with 12-month post-injury diagnoses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dean P McKenzie
- Research and Development, Epworth HealthCare, Richmond, Victoria, Australia; Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia; Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Marina G Downing
- Research and Development, Epworth HealthCare, Richmond, Victoria, Australia; Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Jennie L Ponsford
- Research and Development, Epworth HealthCare, Richmond, Victoria, Australia; Monash-Epworth Rehabilitation Research Centre, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
DiSanto D, Kumar RG, Juengst SB, Hart T, O'Neil-Pirozzi TM, Zasler ND, Novack TA, Dillahunt-Aspillaga C, Graham KM, Cotner BA, Rabinowitz AR, Dikmen S, Niemeier JP, Kesinger MR, Wagner AK. Employment Stability in the First 5 Years After Moderate-to-Severe Traumatic Brain Injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2018; 100:412-421. [PMID: 30055162 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2018.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To characterize employment stability and identify predictive factors of employment stability in working-age individuals after moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) that may be clinically addressed. DESIGN Longitudinal observational study of an inception cohort from the Traumatic Brain Injury Model Systems National Database (TBIMS-NDB) using data at years 1, 2, and 5 post-TBI. SETTING Inpatient rehabilitation centers with telephone follow-up. PARTICIPANTS Individuals enrolled in the TBIMS-NDB since 2001, aged 18-59, with employment data at 2 or more follow-up interviews at years 1, 2, and 5 (N=5683). INTERVENTIONS Not applicable. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE Employment stability, categorized using post-TBI employment data as no paid employment (53.25%), stably (27.20%), delayed (10.24%), or unstably (9.31%) employed. RESULTS Multinomial regression analyses identified predictive factors of employment stability, including younger age, white race, less severe injuries, preinjury employment, higher annual earnings, male sex, higher education, transportation independence postinjury, and no anxiety or depression at 1 year post-TBI. CONCLUSIONS Employment stability serves as an important measure of productivity post-TBI. Psychosocial, clinical, environmental, and demographic factors predict employment stability post-TBI. Notable predictors include transportation independence as well as the presence of anxiety and depression at year 1 post-TBI as potentially modifiable intervention targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dominic DiSanto
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Raj G Kumar
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Department of Epidemiology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Shannon B Juengst
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas; Department of Rehabilitation Counseling, University of Texas-Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Texas
| | - Tessa Hart
- Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute, Montgomery, Alabama
| | - Therese M O'Neil-Pirozzi
- Spaulding-Harvard Traumatic Brain Injury Model System, Boston, Massachusetts; Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Nathan D Zasler
- Concussion Care Centre of Virginia, Ltd, and Tree of Life Services, Inc, Richmond, Virginia; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia; International Brain Injury Association, Alexandria, Virginia
| | - Thomas A Novack
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Christina Dillahunt-Aspillaga
- Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling Program, Department of Child and Family Studies, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida; VA HSR&D Center of Innovation on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (CINDRR), Tampa, Florida
| | - Kristin M Graham
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Bridget A Cotner
- VA HSR&D Center of Innovation on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (CINDRR), Tampa, Florida; Department of Anthropology, University of South Florida, Tampa, Florida
| | - Amanda R Rabinowitz
- Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute, Montgomery, Alabama; Department of Rehabilitation, Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Sureyya Dikmen
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington; Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Janet P Niemeier
- Carolinas Rehabilitation, Carolinas Medical Center, Charlotte, North Carolina
| | | | - Amy K Wagner
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Center for Neuroscience, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Safar Center of Resuscitation Research, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Silva MA, Belanger HG, Dams-O’Connor K, Tang X, McKenzie-Hartman T, Nakase-Richardson R. Prevalence and predictors of tobacco smoking in veterans and service members following traumatic brain injury rehabilitation: a VA TBIMS study. Brain Inj 2018; 32:994-999. [DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2018.1468576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Marc A. Silva
- Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Section (MHBSS), James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
- Dept. of Psychology, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
- Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC) Tampa, FL, USA
- Center of Innovation on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (CINDRR), Health Services Research and Development Service (HSR&D), Tampa, FL, USA
| | - Heather G. Belanger
- Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Section (MHBSS), James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
- Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC) Tampa, FL, USA
- Center of Innovation on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (CINDRR), Health Services Research and Development Service (HSR&D), Tampa, FL, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| | | | - Xinyu Tang
- Biostatistics Program, Dept. of Pediatrics, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock, AR, USA
| | | | - Risa Nakase-Richardson
- Mental Health and Behavioral Sciences Section (MHBSS), James A. Haley Veterans’ Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
- Defense and Veterans Brain Injury Center (DVBIC) Tampa, FL, USA
- Center of Innovation on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (CINDRR), Health Services Research and Development Service (HSR&D), Tampa, FL, USA
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA
| |
Collapse
|