Effect of rehabilitation length of stay on outcomes in individuals with traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury: a systematic review protocol

Systematic Reviews, 2013 · DOI: 10.1186/2046-4053-2-59 · Published: July 20, 2013

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Brain Injury

Simple Explanation

Rehabilitation is important for individuals with neurotrauma to regain abilities and participate socially. This study aims to review existing research on how long these individuals should stay in rehabilitation to achieve the best results. Currently, there's uncertainty about the right amount of rehabilitation needed for people with TBI or SCI, leading to variations in treatment. This review seeks to provide clear guidance for clinicians. This systematic review aims to clarify the factors that influence length of stay and intensity of rehabilitation services for individuals with TBI and SCI, and to give clinicians indications for optimal length of stay in these patient populations.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Adults (18 to 65 years old without geriatric profile) with moderate or severe traumatic SCI or TBI

Evidence Level

Systematic review protocol

Key Findings

1
The systematic review aims to identify the effect of rehabilitation length of stay and intensity on functional independence and social participation outcomes in individuals with TBI or SCI.
2
The review will explore how factors like age and co-morbidity influence the rehabilitation length of stay for individuals with TBI or SCI.
3
The study seeks to determine the optimal length of stay in rehabilitation for individuals with TBI and SCI, contributing to improved care quality and functional outcomes.

Research Summary

This systematic review protocol outlines a plan to examine the impact of rehabilitation length of stay on outcomes for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) or spinal cord injury (SCI). The review aims to synthesize existing evidence to provide clinicians and managers with clear guidance on the optimal duration and intensity of rehabilitation services for these populations. The results of this review are intended to inform clinical practice, potentially leading to improved quality of care, better functional results, and the development of clinical guidelines or performance indicators.

Practical Implications

Informed Clinical Practice

Provides clinicians with evidence-based indications for optimal rehabilitation length of stay for TBI and SCI patients.

Efficient Resource Allocation

Helps managers understand factors influencing length of stay, leading to better resource allocation and service delivery.

Improved Patient Outcomes

Contributes to better quality of care and functional results for individuals with TBI and SCI through optimized rehabilitation strategies.

Study Limitations

1
Focus on studies published after January 1990 might exclude relevant earlier research.
2
Language restriction to English and French could introduce bias.
3
Inclusion criteria limited to inpatient rehabilitation settings.

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