Abstract

Published literature argues that wellness remains an elusive goal for the survivors of traumatic brain injury. This study investigated the perceived and self-reported role that speech-language pathologists play in the restoration of wellness for survivors of traumatic brain injury. These responses were then compared to those of physical and occupational therapists. The participants of this study were physical therapists, occupational therapists, and speech-language pathologists who were identified as employees of rehabilitation facilities throughout the United States. The participants were contacted by email, and were directed to an electronic survey administered by Google Documents. The results of this study found statistically significant differences among the survey group with regard to: clinical responsibilities, therapeutic goals, and the prioritization of the dimensions of wellness. This study concluded that: (1) all three disciplines agree wellness should be a rehabilitation goal for survivors of traumatic brain injury, (2) narrowly stated rehabilitative goals contribute significantly to unmet patient wellness needs, (3) limited collaboration among the three rehabilitation disciplines, left the broad wellness goals unaddressed, and (4) continuing education leads to increased awareness of patient wellness needs. Ongoing education and work redesign are necessary to close the gap between patient wellness needs and the currently delivered rehabilitative services.

Advisor

Goldberg, Don

Department

Communication Studies

Disciplines

Speech Pathology and Audiology

Keywords

traumatic brain injury, wellness, speech-language pathology

Publication Date

2012

Degree Granted

Bachelor of Arts

Document Type

Senior Independent Study Thesis

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© Copyright 2012 Jessica Quiery