Article

Many studies have reported emotional distress in relatives of patients with brain
injury, but few studies have investigated neuropsychological interventions for
relatives. The present study assessed the amount of neuropsychological support as
well as the actual number of sessions with a neuropsychologist during
rehabilitation in a sub-acute unit. The study also examined whether the amount of
support was related to the condition of the patient or the relative at admission.
The sample consisted of 26 patients and their closest relative, and measures
included demographic variables as well as characteristics related to the patient:
Glasgow Coma Scale, Injury Severity Score, Early Functional Abilities, Functional
Independence Measure, Rancho Los Amigos; and to the relative: symptoms of anxiety
and depression (SCL-90-R), quality of life (SF-36) and amount and number of
sessions of neuropsychological support. On average, the relatives received about
18 units of 15 minutes and had six sessions with a neuropsychologist during
hospitalisation. A total of 38% participated in group sessions. Relatives'
symptoms of anxiety at admission were associated with the number of sessions as
well as the amount of support, indicating that relatives with more symptoms of
anxiety received more support during the hospitalisation.

Langue : ANGLAIS