Article

OBJECTIVE: To describe variation in structural and process characteristics of
acute in-hospital rehabilitation and referral to post-acute care for patients
with traumatic brain injury across Europe. DESIGN:
Survey study, of neurotrauma
centres. METHODS: A 14-item survey about in-hospital rehabilitation and referral
to post-acute care was sent to 71 neurotrauma centres participating in a European
multicentre study (CENTER-TBI). The questionnaire was developed based on
literature and expert opinion and was pilot-tested before sending out to the
centres. RESULTS: Seventy (99%) centres in 20 countries completed the survey. The
included centres were predominately academic level I trauma centres. Among the 70
centres, a multidisciplinary rehabilitation team can be consulted at 41% (n = 29)
of the intensive care units and 49% (n = 34) of the wards. Only 13 (19%) centres
used rehabilitation guidelines in patients with traumatic brain injury. Age was
reported as a major determinant of referral decisions in 32 (46%) centres, with
younger patients usually referred to specialized rehabilitation centres, and
patients >/= 65 years also referred to nursing homes or local hospitals.
CONCLUSION: Substantial variation exists in structural and process
characteristics of in-hospital acute rehabilitation and referral to post-acute
rehabilitation facilities among neurotrauma centres across Europe.

Langue : ANGLAIS