Affiliations: [a] Regional Acquired Brain Injury Unit, Musgrave Park Hospital, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Belfast, UK | [b] School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
Correspondence:
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Corresponding author: Dr. Colin Wilson, Regional Acquired Brain Injury Unit, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, Stockman's Lane, Belfast BT9 7JB, UK. Tel.: +44 (28) 90903386; E-mail: colin.wilson@belfasttrust.hscni.net
Abstract: Objective:To analyse the functional outcomes of adults following acquired brain injury attending an intensive outpatient neuro-rehabilitation programme relative to a comprehensive TBI day programme service in the United States.Method: Design:Retrospective audit of all admissions over a two-year period (2001–2003) to an outpatient neuro-rehabilitation service utilising an interdisciplinary team model. Setting:Outpatient neuro-rehabilitation service. Participants:89 patients in receipt of 2+ therapies attending for intensive day neuro-rehabilitation programme. Main Outcome Measures:Routine FIM+FAMUK scores were compiled on admission and discharge. The FIM+FAMUK is a widely employed outcome measure of activity and participation comprising 30 items across a range of domains including self care, domestic skills, mobility, communication, cognitive and social abilities. The scale is divided into two broad domains of functioning (motor and cognitive). Data Analysis:Descriptive analysis of demographic, patient diagnosis, referral patterns and time since injury to attendance was undertaken. Analysis of FIM+FAMUK admission and discharge scores was performed. Results:Complete admission and discharge scores were available for 65 patients. Significant mean improvements in motor (12.0 point change), cognitive (7.3 point change) and composite FIM+FAMUK (19.3 point change) scores were observed indicating reduced functional dependence following an intensive period of outpatient neuro-rehabilitation. Conclusion:The FIM+FAMUK measure demonstrated sensitivity to change across functional domains relevant to goal directed intensive outpatient interdisciplinary neuro-rehabilitation.
