Traumatic Brain Injury : Rehabilitation for Everyday Adaptive Living, 2nd Edition

Research into the rehabilitation of individuals following Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) in the past 15 years has resulted in greater understanding of the condition. The second edition of this book provides an updated guide for health professionals working with individuals recovering from TBI. Its uniquely clinical focus provides both comprehensive background information, and practical strategies for dealing with common problems with thinking, memory, communication, behaviour and emotional adjustment in both adults and children. The book addresses a wide range of challenges, from those which begin with impairment of consciousness, to those occurring for many years after injury, and presents strategies for maximising participation in all aspects of community life. The book will be of use to practising clinicians, students in health disciplines relevant to neurorehabilitation, and also to the families of individuals with traumatic brain injury. All practitioners working with traumatically brain-injured (TBI) individuals and their families will find this book an invaluable resource. Based on scientific evidence and extensive clinical experience, it provides comprehensive and practical guidelines for the assessment and management of a wide range of problems associated with TBI. The book begins with a discussion of mechanisms and sequelae of TBI, outlining the recommended approach to rehabilitation, termed the REAL Approach. This signifies Rehabilitation for Everyday Adaptive Living, the essence of which is effective teamwork, focusing on the real world, involvement of the injured person and family, and taking a long-term view of the rehabilitation process. Reflecting the expertise of the authors in the domains of clinical neuropsychology, occupational therapy, and speech pathology, a broad spectrum of issues is covered, including assessment and management of coma and post-traumatic amnesia, ongoing cognitive problems, communication and interpersonal difficulties, and behaviour change. Issues involved in returning to the community are addressed, including return to independent living, work, study, leisure interests, and driving. The nature and methods of assisting with a range of adjustment difficulties are explored, as well as the impact of TBI on families. The final chapter discusses the special needs of children who sustain TBI. The past 15 years have seen many developments in the knowledge, research and rehabilitation of individuals following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The second edition of this book provides an updated guide for health professionals working with individuals with such injuries. It's uniquely clinical focus provides both comprehensive background information, and practical strategies for dealing with common problems with thinking, memory, communication, behaviour and emotional adjustment in both adults and children. The book addresses a wide range of challenges, from those which begin with impairment of consciousness, to those occurring for many years after injury, and presents strategies for maximising participation in all aspects of community life. The book will be of use to practising clinicians, students in health disciplines relevant to neurorehabilitation, and to the families of individuals with traumatic brain injury."-- Back cover