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

Objectives: To predict community integration and vocational outcomes 2-5 ye ars 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 (demogra phic, injury severity and functional) were retrieved from hospital records. Community integration and vocational outcome was assessed by self-administ ered questionnaire. Two hundred and nine patients/carers completed and retu rned the questionnaires. Mean follow-up was 3.5 years. Data were analysed b y descriptive statistics, multiple regression and discriminant analysis usi ng SPSS. Results: Community integration was predicted by age, disability level and c ognition. Length of PTA, cognition, disability levels, GCS, functional stat us, length of acute stay and prior occupation discriminated those who retur ned to work. A total of 46.5% returned to work with 74.5% in the same or si milar jobs. Conclusion: Long term outcomes post-TBI can be predicted by demographic, in jury severity and functional status variables.