Disability and Factors Associated with Disability in the Discharge Transition Phase After Acquired Brain Injury: An...

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Public Health

Background:

• Acquired brain injury (ABI) presents significant challenges for patients transitioning from in-hospital rehabilitation to community reintegration.
• Assessing functioning, disability, and health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is crucial for understanding the post-rehabilitation experience.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate disability, HRQoL, and functional outcomes in ABI patients during the transition phase.
• To identify risk factors associated with disability levels three months post-discharge.

Main Methods:

• Prospective observational follow-up study of adult ABI patients discharged from specialized rehabilitation.
• Collection of patient-reported outcomes (disability, HRQoL) at discharge and three months post-discharge.
• Multiple linear regression analysis to examine associations between disability and risk factors.

Main Results:

• A moderate level of disability persisted in 38% of patients at three months post-discharge, with no significant change from discharge.
• Health-related quality of life (HRQoL) significantly improved, reaching levels comparable to the general population (mean score 0.83).
• Fatigue, patient sex, and time from injury to rehabilitation were significantly associated with disability levels.

Conclusions:

• The transition period post-rehabilitation remains challenging for ABI survivors, with a substantial proportion experiencing ongoing disability.
• Despite persistent disability, ABI patients demonstrate significant improvements in HRQoL after rehabilitation.
• Fatigue, sex, and the timing of rehabilitation are critical factors influencing long-term disability outcomes in ABI patients.