Citation

Downing M, Hicks A, Braaf SC, Myles D, Gabbe B, Cameron P, Ameratunga S, Ponsford J. Neuropsychol. Rehabil. 2020; ePub(ePub): ePub.

Affiliation

Turner Institute for Brain and Mental Health, School of Psychological Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, Australia.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2020, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/09602011.2020.1744453

PMID

32200692

Abstract

Given the significant impact of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), understanding factors influencing recovery is critical to inform prognostication and treatment planning. Previous research has focussed primarily on factors negatively associated with outcome, with less focus on factors facilitating the recovery process. The current qualitative study examined positive factors identified for recovery by individuals who had sustained severe TBI three years earlier. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine participants with TBI and 16 close-others. Participants were asked to identify factors about themselves (or the injured individual), those around them, and the care they received that they felt were positive for recovery. Using reflexive thematic analysis, three themes were identified as positive for recovery after a TBI. Having a support network included social supports such as family and friends, and receiving other funded/non-funded assistance towards improving independence and participation. Being positive and engaged included being able to participate, being positive, using compensatory strategies, and becoming fit, healthy and happy. Getting good care included patients perceiving they had a comprehensive and good quality hospital experience, and access to multidisciplinary outpatient services. A focus on enhancing these positive environmental, personal and service factors in service provision may enhance outcomes following severe TBI.

Language: en

Keywords

Outcome; Positive factors; Qualitative; Recovery; Traumatic brain injury