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P.016 Early telephone follow-up for traumatic brain injury patients using the Rivermead post-concussion symptoms questionnaire

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  02 June 2017

G Thibault-Halman
Affiliation:
(Halifax)
L Fenerty
Affiliation:
(Halifax)
P Taylor
Affiliation:
(Halifax)
N Kureshi
Affiliation:
(Halifax)
S Walling
Affiliation:
(Halifax)
DB Clarke
Affiliation:
(Halifax)
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Abstract

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Background: Patients who require hospitalization for a mild or moderate traumatic brain injury (TBI) are often discharged home with uncertainty around their full recovery. This study examines the frequency and severity of common post-TBI symptoms, as assessed by the Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPCQ). Methods: All adult TBI inpatients discharged home from the Neurosurgery service were interviewed by phone at two weeks by a rehab-based nurse practitioner. RPCQ components (cognitive, emotional, and somatic) were analyzed; findings and management recommendations were communicated to family practitioners and the treating neurosurgeon. Results: In 46 patients, cognitive symptoms were present in 52%, 91% had somatic, and 100% had emotional symptoms. Fatigue was the most common symptom (67%). Double vision was the least common symptom (4%). Recommendations for managing symptoms, return to work, and need for formal clinical assessment were provided for 37% of cases. Conclusions: All patients admitted to neurosurgery with mild or moderate TBI had symptoms at two weeks. The RPCQ is a low-cost structured evaluative tool which highlights needs and provides guidance for patients and care-givers; it also seems effective in identifying those who may require formal clinical assessment.

Type
Poster Presentations
Copyright
Copyright © The Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences Inc. 2017