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Assessment and Communication for People with Disorders of Consciousness
Published on: August 1, 2017
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Speech-language pathologists' perspectives on cognitive communication assessment during post-traumatic amnesia.
Joanne Steel1,2, Alison Ferguson1,2, Elizabeth Spencer1
1a Speech Pathology , The University of Newcastle , Newcastle , Australia.
Brain Injury
|June 18, 2016
Summary
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) assess cognitive communication (CC) during post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) after TBI to monitor progress and inform treatment. They utilize individualized, ongoing assessments throughout PTA and early recovery.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
Background:
- Cognitive communication (CC) assessment following traumatic brain injury (TBI) during post-traumatic amnesia (PTA) is under-reported.
- Understanding the approaches of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) is crucial for optimizing early TBI care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate SLPs' rationales for conducting CC assessments during PTA.
- To explore SLPs' perspectives on CC assessment methods during the early recovery phase after TBI.
Main Methods:
- A qualitative study involving 10 SLPs.
- Semi-structured interviews were conducted face-to-face or via telephone.
- Content analysis was performed using NVivo software.
Main Results:
- SLPs' rationales included documenting progress, providing feedback, diagnosing disorders, planning care, and determining prognosis.
- Ongoing, informal CC assessment and monitoring were employed during PTA.
- Formal testing commenced post-PTA to establish a baseline communication function.
Conclusions:
- SLPs emphasize an individualized approach to CC assessment in TBI.
- The study offers insights into the process of CC assessment during PTA and early recovery.
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