Course Description

This is a basic level course to introduce course participants to traumatic brain injury.  A review of brain anatomy and pathophysiology will prepare participants for treatment interventions based on current research.  Treatment interventions will parallel the Rancho Los Amigos scale and the revised version of this measure will be used as a learning tool.  Specific interventions for transfers, seating systems and serial casting will be discussed.  Treatment interventions will focus on a team approach thus demonstrating how the 24 - hour spectrum of medical and rehabilitative care can be therapeutic.

Course Level (As defined by the APTA): Basic – Assumes that participants have little information with topic (traumatic brain injury management).  The focus of the course is on general principles affiliated with rehabilitation and increased awareness of traumatic brain injury.

Participants

Occupational, Physical & Speech Language Pathologists; Certified Occupational Therapy Assistants and Licensed Physical Therapy Assistants; Acute Care Trauma or Neurology Nurses; Certified Rehabilitation Nurses

Course Objectives

After completing this course, the participant will be able to:

1. List major portions of the brain and function of each.
2. Explain the pathophysiology of a traumatic brain injury.
3. Verbalize distinct characteristics of the new version of the Rancho Los Amigo scale.
4. Demonstrate the appropriate technique to transfer based on Rancho level.
5. State the purpose of a specific seating system based on Rancho level and posture.
6. Indicate reasons to use serial casting to improve and maintain range of motion.

Continuing Education Units

A certificate of attendance will be issued denoting eight (8) contact (clock) hours or .8 CEUs of continuing education competence. The contact hours or CEUs will vary in each state according to licensure boards, state associations, or sponsoring entities.