Screening for traumatic brain injury

The researchers implemented a traumatic brain injury (TBI) screening procedure in settings likely to have relatively frequent contacts with survivors to better document TBI occurrence among populations at high-risk for under-identification.

Professionals from four service agencies administered a TBI screening protocol to all incoming clients over a 6-month period.

Of the 1999 protocols collected, 531 (26.56%) were positive for a possible history of TBI of sufficient severity to impact quality of life. Memory challenges were the most common chronic complaint among individuals with positive screen results, with struggles with headaches, depression, concentration and anxiety also commonly reported.

Large numbers of people seeking vocational rehabilitation, domestic abuse, homeless shelter or mental health services may experience persistent challenges stemming from unidentified TBIs. Identifying these individuals and the source of their challenges is important when developing intervention and supportive services. Using a TBI screening tool is one means of facilitating this identification process.