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Drew N, McAllister M, Coffin J, Robinson M, Katzenellenbogen J, Armstrong E. Healing Right Way randomised control trial enhancing rehabilitation services for Aboriginal people with brain injury in Western Australia: translation principles and activities. BRAIN IMPAIR 2024; 25:IB23109. [PMID: 38640359 DOI: 10.1071/ib23109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/21/2024]
Abstract
Background This report provides the theory, method and practice of culturally secure translation and knowledge exchange in the Healing Right Way Clinical Trial (2017-2022), outlining activities to date. Healing Right Way was a stepped wedge cluster randomised controlled trial conducted in Western Australia, aimed at enhancing rehabilitation services and quality of life for Aboriginal Australians following acquired brain injury. The trial translation plan was aspirational and action-oriented, with its implementation iterative and ongoing. Translational activities aimed to inform service and research planning for Aboriginal people with brain injury. Situated in the intercultural space, the work guards against undertaking activities that are monocultural, colonial and appropriating in favour of work that is authentically viewed through the dual lens of whiteness and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander ways of knowing, being and doing, and is strengths-based. Methods Three translational and knowledge exchange components were identified, relating to the role of Aboriginal Brain Injury Coordinators, cultural training of hospital staff and the research process itself. Knowledge plans were developed for key audiences, with potential translation products to be monitored for ongoing impact. Results Results demonstrate that translational and knowledge exchange were iteratively embedded throughout the trial life cycle. Data sources included community engagement, partnership meetings and interviews. Activities involved presentations to diverse audiences including bureaucrats, community and participants. Conclusions This report provides a snapshot of the first translation knowledge exchange plan and activities constructed in relation to brain injury rehabilitation services for Aboriginal people. Challenges encountered, as well as successes to date, are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil Drew
- Kurongkurl Katitjin, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Meaghan McAllister
- School of Medical and Health Sciences, Edith Cowan University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Juli Coffin
- Ngangk Yira Institute for Change, Murdoch University, Broome, WA, Australia
| | - Melanie Robinson
- Ngangk Yira Institute for Change, Murdoch University, Broome, WA, Australia
| | - Judith Katzenellenbogen
- School of Population and Global Health, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Elizabeth Armstrong
- University Department of Rural Health South West, Edith Cowan University, Bunbury, Australia
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Fitts MS, Cullen J, Kingston G, Johnson Y, Wills E, Soldatic K. Understanding the Lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women with Traumatic Brain Injury from Family Violence in Australia: A Qualitative Study Protocol. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1607. [PMID: 36674368 PMCID: PMC9861732 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/08/2023] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Globally, there is growing recognition of the connection between violence and head injuries. At present, little qualitative research exists around how surviving this experience impacts everyday life for women, particularly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women. This project aims to explore the nature and context of these women's lives including living with the injury and to identify their needs and priorities during recovery. This 3-year exploratory project is being conducted across three Australian jurisdictions (Queensland, Northern Territory, and New South Wales). Qualitative interviews and discussion groups will be conducted with four key groups: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women (aged 18+) who have acquired a head injury through family violence; their family members and/or carers; and hospital staff as well as government and non-government service providers who work with women who have experienced family violence. Nominated staff within community-based service providers will support the promotion of the project to women who have acquired a head injury through family violence. Hospital staff and service providers will be recruited using purposive and snowball sampling. Transcripts and fieldnotes will be analysed using narrative and descriptive phenomenological approaches. Reflection and research knowledge exchange and translation will be undertaken through service provider workshops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle S. Fitts
- Institute for Culture and Society, Western Sydney University, Parramatta, NSW 2751, Australia
- Menzies School of Health Research, Charles Darwin University, Alice Springs, NT 0871, Australia
- Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Jennifer Cullen
- Synapse Australia, Brisbane, QLD 3356, Australia
- College of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4878, Australia
| | - Gail Kingston
- Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, QLD 4814, Australia
| | - Yasmin Johnson
- Institute for Culture and Society, Western Sydney University, Parramatta, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Elaine Wills
- Institute for Culture and Society, Western Sydney University, Parramatta, NSW 2751, Australia
| | - Karen Soldatic
- Institute for Culture and Society, Western Sydney University, Parramatta, NSW 2751, Australia
- School of Social Sciences, Western Sydney University, Parramatta, NSW 2751, Australia
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Lama S, Damkliang J, Kitrungrote L. Predictive factors for community integration among Nepalese persons after traumatic brain injury. TRAUMA-ENGLAND 2022. [DOI: 10.1177/14604086221088104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Various factors affect the community integration (CI) of persons experiencing traumatic brain injury (TBI). To ensure positive outcomes in terms of life at home, social activities, and productive work among persons suffering TBI, it is necessary to understand the factors that facilitate or impede CI. Purpose To compare CI by looking at demographic and clinical characteristics and determine significant predictors of CI among TBI Nepalese persons. Methods 120 participants were selected using a stratified random sampling technique. A questionnaire was used to identify the participants’ demographic and clinical characteristics, and the Community Integration Questionnaire was used to measure CI. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed for demographic and clinical factors associated with community integration. Results Using univariate analysis, male, employed, living with family, and independence in performing activities of daily living had significantly higher CI scores than female (t = −4.18, p<.000), unemployed (t = −10.52, p<.000), living with friends (t = −3.30, p<.001), and those with moderate to slight dependence (t = −2.83, p<.005). The multivariate analysis revealed that employment status, living with family, and length of hospital stay were significant predictors of CI among TBI Nepalese persons. Conclusion Employment status, living with family, and length of hospital stay were significant predictors of CI. These findings suggest that rehabilitation efforts should focus on minimizing hospital stay and promoting both productive and social activities among people surviving TBI.
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Evans V. Caring for Traumatic Brain Injury Patients: Australian Nursing Perspectives. Crit Care Nurs Clin North Am 2021; 33:21-36. [PMID: 33526196 DOI: 10.1016/j.cnc.2020.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Each year, millions of people suffer traumatic brain injury (TBI). It is not inherent to any country or group of people. It occurs as a result of falls, combat situations, sports injury, schoolyard playgrounds, and car accidents. It does not discriminate with age or status. Cost implications for health care settings and individuals are substantial. Management requires prompt neurologic assessment by a highly specialized multidisciplinary team of neuroscience practitioners. It is important to understand normal brain anatomy and physiology to identify what is unusual or abnormal. Keen observational skills and constant questioning aid in early detection of neurologic deterioration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vicki Evans
- World Federation of Neuroscience Nurses; Neuroscience, Royal North Shore Hospital, Pacific Highway, St. Leonard's, Sydney, New South Wales 2065, Australia.
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A Qualitative Study on the Transition Support Needs of Indigenous Australians Following Traumatic Brain Injury. BRAIN IMPAIR 2019. [DOI: 10.1017/brimp.2019.24] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
AbstractObjective:A growing body of qualitative literature globally describes post-hospital experiences during early recovery from a traumatic brain injury. For Indigenous Australians, however, little published information is available. This study aimed to understand the lived experiences of Indigenous Australians during the 6 months post-discharge, identify the help and supports accessed during transition and understand the gaps in service provision or difficulties experienced.Methods and Procedure:Semi-structured interviews were conducted at 6 months after hospital discharge to gain an understanding of the needs and lived experiences of 11 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians who had suffered traumatic brain injury in Queensland and Northern Territory, Australia. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.Results:Five major themes were identified within the data. These were labelled ‘hospital experiences’, ‘engaging with medical and community-based supports’, ‘health and wellbeing impacts from the injury’, ‘everyday living’ and ‘family adjustments post-injury’.Conclusions:While some of the transition experiences for Indigenous Australians were similar to those found in other populations, the transition period for Indigenous Australians is influenced by additional factors in hospital and during their recovery process. Lack of meaningful interaction with treating clinicians in hospital, challenges managing direct contact with multiple service providers and the injury-related psychological impacts are some of the factors that could prevent Indigenous Australians from receiving the supports they require to achieve their best possible health outcomes in the long term. A holistic approach to care, with an individualised, coordinated transition support, may reduce the risks for re-admission with further head injuries.
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Fitts MS, Condon T, Gilroy J, Bird K, Bleakley E, Matheson L, Fleming J, Clough AR, Esterman A, Maruff P, Bohanna I. Indigenous traumatic brain injury research: responding to recruitment challenges in the hospital environment. BMC Med Res Methodol 2019; 19:172. [PMID: 31390984 PMCID: PMC6686395 DOI: 10.1186/s12874-019-0813-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hospitals are common recruitment sites for injury and disability studies. However, the clinical and rehabilitation environment can create unique challenges for researchers to recruit participant populations. While there is growing injury and disability focused research involving Indigenous people to understand the types of services and supports required by this population to enhance their recovery experiences, there is limited knowledge of researchers' experiences implementing recruitment processes in the tertiary hospital environment. This paper reflects on the specific challenges of recruiting Indigenous patients following a traumatic brain injury from two tertiary hospitals in Northern Australia. METHODS Between July 2016 and April 2018, research staff recruited eligible patients from one hospital in Queensland and one hospital in the Northern Territory. Qualitative records summarising research staff contact with patients, family members and clinical hospital staff were documented. These qualitative records, in addition to field trip notes and researcher reflections were reviewed to summarise the main challenges in gaining access to patients who fit the eligibility criteria. RESULTS During the recruitment process, there were five main challenges encountered: (1) Patients discharging against medical advice from hospital; (2) Discharge prior to formal emergence from Post Traumatic Amnesia as per the Westmead Post Trauma Amnesia Scale; (3) Patients under adult guardianship orders; (4) Narrow participant eligibility criteria and (5) Coordinating around patient commitments and treatment. Details of how the recruitment processes were modified throughout the recruitment phase of the study to ensure greater access to patients that met the criteria are described. CONCLUSION Based on our recruitment experiences, several recommendations are proposed for future TBI studies with Indigenous Australians. In addition to treatment, Indigenous TBI patients have wide range of needs that must be addressed while in hospital. Patient engagement and data collection processes should be flexible to respond to patient needs and the hospital environment. Employment of a centralized recruiter at each hospital site may help to minimise the challenges researchers need to navigate in the hospital environment. To improve recruitment processes in hospitals, it is essential for researchers examining other health or injury outcomes to describe their recruitment experiences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle S. Fitts
- College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, Division of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Townsville, QLD Australia
- Centre for Alcohol Policy Research, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC Australia
| | - Taeha Condon
- College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, Division of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD Australia
| | - John Gilroy
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Disability Research and Policy, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Katrina Bird
- College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, Division of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD Australia
| | - Erica Bleakley
- National Critical Care and Trauma Response Centre, Royal Darwin Hospital, Darwin, Northern Territory Australia
| | - Lauren Matheson
- Occupational Therapy Department, Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, QLD Australia
| | - Jennifer Fleming
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia
| | - Alan R. Clough
- Community-based Health Promotion and Prevention Studies Group, Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD Australia
| | - Adrian Esterman
- Sansom Institute for Health Research and School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of South Australia and Australian Institute of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD 4870 Australia
| | - Paul Maruff
- Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, Melbourne, Australia
| | - India Bohanna
- College of Public Health, Medical & Veterinary Sciences, Division of Tropical Health and Medicine, James Cook University, Cairns, QLD Australia
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The Potential of a Narrative and Creative Arts Approach to Enhance Transition Outcomes for Indigenous Australians Following Traumatic Brain Injury. BRAIN IMPAIR 2019. [DOI: 10.1017/brimp.2019.25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
AbstractBackground:Increasingly, narrative and creative arts approaches are being used to enhance recovery after traumatic brain injury (TBI). Narrative and arts-based approaches congruent with Indigenous storytelling may therefore provide benefit during the transition from hospital to home for some Indigenous TBI patients. This qualitative study explored the use and impact of this approach as part of a larger, longitudinal study of TBI transition with Indigenous Australians.Method:A combined narrative and arts-based approach was used with one Indigenous Australian artist to describe his transition experiences following TBI. Together with the researchers and filmmaking team, the artist was involved in aspects of the process. The artist contributed two paintings, detailing the story of his life and TBI. Based on the artworks, a film was co-created. Following the viewing of the film, impacts of the narrative and arts-based process were examined through semi-structured interviews with the artist, a service provider and a family member. Multiple sources of data were used in the final thematic analysis including transcripts of the interviews and filming, paintings (including storylines) and researcher notes.Results:Positive impacts from the process for the artist included positive challenge; healing and identity; understanding TBI and raising awareness.Discussion:This approach may enable the individual to take ownership over their transition story and to make sense of their life following TBI at a critical point in their recovery. A combined narrative and arts-based approach has potential as a culturally responsive rehabilitation tool for use with Indigenous Australians during the transition period following TBI.
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‘I’ve got to row the boat on my own, more or less’: aboriginal australian experiences of traumatic brain injury. BRAIN IMPAIR 2019. [DOI: 10.1017/brimp.2019.19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
ABSTRACTBackground:The overarching cultural context of the brain injury survivor, particularly that related to minority peoples with a history of colonisation and discrimination, has rarely been referred to in the research literature, despite profoundly influencing a person’s recovery journey in significant ways, including access to services. This study highlights issues faced by Australian Aboriginal traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors in terms of real-life consequences of the high incidence of TBI in this population, current treatment and long-term challenges.Method:A case study approach utilised qualitative interview and file review data related to five male Aboriginal TBI survivors diagnosed with acquired communication disorders. The five TBI survivors were from diverse areas of rural and remote Western Australia, aged between 19 and 48 years at the time of injury, with a range of severity.Case Reports:Common themes included: significant long-term life changes; short-term and long-term dislocation from family and country as medical intervention and rehabilitation were undertaken away from the person’s rural/remote home; family adjustments to the TBI including permanent re-location to a metropolitan area to be with their family member in residential care; challenges related to lack of formal rehabilitation services in rural areas; poor communication channels; poor cultural security of services; and lack of consistent follow-up.Discussion and Conclusion:These case reports represent some of the first documented stories of Aboriginal Australian TBI survivors. They supplement available epidemiological data and highlight different contexts for Aboriginal people after TBI, contributing to an overall profile that is relevant for rehabilitation service planning.
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