Neuropsychological Assessment and Rehabilitation of BI - Acute Phase Rehabilitation

The initial recovery phases proceed depending on the symptoms, the findings of medical tests such as CT and MRI scans, and the presence of other medical issues. Dealing with immediate medical concerns is a primary issue. The rehabilitation process, however, should begin as soon as possible to improve the patient’s neuropsychological prognosis.

Beginning Rehabilitation in Young Brain Injury Patients

In children, and even in newborn babies, the early goals include medication management. Drug withdrawal and management of medications for epilepsy and other conditions is often part of the process. Patients with traumatic brain injuries often require endotracheal and nasogastric tubes at first, but weaning them off these is an important phase.

Medical teams must also be careful not to overstimulate the patient, and work to establish healthy sleep patterns. Physical therapy may include multi sensory stimulation, feeding and swallowing training, and physical contact with family members for babies.

Including All in the Process

The acute phases are often accompanied by shock and denial on the part of family members. Emotional states vary with any brain injury case, and the uncertainties of an infant’s prognosis can be even more difficult. The deficits can be more challenging than an in an adult, and some may not be known for some time. In the acute phase, the mother is usually encouraged to spend a lot of time with the child, and nurses and therapists are involved in the experience as well.

This period of time can be one of general uncertainty. Conditions such as autism, attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, and even cerebral palsy often aren’t obvious from the start. During acute rehabilitation, close monitoring can help detect early signs, but the recovery process must be ongoing. This means that the interventional strategies and rehabilitation methods may change from time to time, depending on the child’s needs. Each program must be managed individually, and account for the needs of family members as well, as the process can be stressful for everyone.