Population-based estimates of outcomes after hospitalization for traumatic brain injury in Colorado.

Abstract

To determine statewide, population-based outcomes of persons hospitalized with traumatic brain injury (TBI) at 1 year postinjury. Follow-up survey of a representative cohort. A statewide, population-based registry and follow-up system for persons hospitalized with TBI. A total of 1591 adult Coloradoans with moderate and severe injury oversampled, but weighted to be representative of persons hospitalized with TBI (1996-1999) who survived their injuries and completed follow-up telephone interviews at 1 year postinjury. Not applicable. Checklists of symptoms and service utilization, the FIM instrument trade mark, the Craig Handicap Assessment and Reporting Technique Short Form, a single-item quality of life (QOL) measure, and a needs assessment checklist. Problematic outcomes occurring at 1 year postinjury included one third or more being bothered by fatigue, feeling irritable or grouchy, having headaches, and experiencing trouble sleeping more frequently than preinjury; 37% reported needing the assistance of another person in physical and/or cognitive activities of daily living; substantial participation restrictions were noted in areas of occupation (30%) and social integration (22%); and 29% responded that their QOL was only fair or poor. Negative outcomes were reported more frequently among individuals who were more severely injured, older, or female. Substantial percentages of people hospitalized with TBI in a population-based sample reported a variety of problematic outcomes at 1 year postinjury.