Prediction of community integration and vocational outcome 2-5 years after traumatic brain injury rehabilitation in Australia.

OBJECTIVES

To predict community integration and vocational outcomes 2-5 years after traumatic brain injury (TBI).

DESIGN

Multivariate correlational design incorporating retrospective data collection and questionnaire follow-up.

METHODS

Four hundred and forty six patients admitted to a Head Injury Unit between 1991 and 1995 were contacted. Data on predictor variables (demographic, injury severity and functional) were retrieved from hospital records. Community integration and vocational outcome was assessed by self-administered questionnaire. Two hundred and nine patients/carers completed and returned the questionnaires. Mean follow-up was 3.5 years. Data were analysed by descriptive statistics, multiple regression and discriminant analysis using SPSS.

RESULTS

Community integration was predicted by age, disability level and cognition. Length of PTA, cognition, disability levels, GCS, functional status, length of acute stay and prior occupation discriminated those who returned to work. A total of 46.5% returned to work with 74.5% in the same or similar jobs.

CONCLUSION

Long term outcomes post-TBI can be predicted by demographic, injury severity and functional status variables.