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Outcomes for children with acquired brain injury (ABI) admitted to acute neurorehabilitation
Author(s) -
Keetley Rachel,
Bennett Emily,
Williams Jane,
Stewart Iain,
Whitehouse William P,
Pilling Pauline,
Manning Joseph C
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
developmental medicine and child neurology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.658
H-Index - 143
eISSN - 1469-8749
pISSN - 0012-1622
DOI - 10.1111/dmcn.14846
Subject(s) - neurorehabilitation , acquired brain injury , medicine , psychological intervention , rehabilitation , traumatic brain injury , physical therapy , physical medicine and rehabilitation , psychology , nursing , psychiatry
Aim To evaluate an innovative paediatric neurorehabilitation model in relation to improving quality of neurorehabilitation and reducing length of stay (LOS) for children with acquired brain injury. Method A process evaluation approach was conducted in line with Medical Research Council evaluation of complex interventions guidance. Analysis was conducted on routinely collected patient data from 2017 to 2018, including LOS and family feedback. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for quantitative analysis and qualitative data was analysed thematically. Results Outcomes for 70 children (0–16y, median age 5y, IQR 1–11y, 46 males, 24 females) referred to the service indicated improved function and reduced complexity of need. The mean LOS was 10.6 days compared to baseline mean LOS of 41 days (2011–2012). High satisfaction from the families was recorded; however, ongoing needs and service gaps regarding long‐term support were identified. Interpretation This service model is effective in delivering quality paediatric neurorehabilitation, demonstrating a sustained impact on LOS, and positive patient outcome data and family feedback for this group of patients.What this paper adds Investment in early intensive neurorehabilitation and supported discharge impacts length of stay (LOS) for children with acquired brain injury. Early intensive neurorehabilitation and supported discharge is effective. This is demonstrated by a sustained reduction in LOS, positive patient outcomes, and family feedback.