Family needs on an inpatient brain injury rehabilitation unit: A quantitative assessment

Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal article

Accession No.:

J79170

Journal:

Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2018 , 33, 4, 228-236

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study examined the needs of family members in an inpatient rehabilitation setting and identified factors predicting the extent to which needs are perceived as met. Eighty-five adult survivors of traumatic brain injury and family members completed the Family Needs Questionnaire-Revised (FNQ-R). Needs related to the Health Information subscale were most frequently rated as met, whereas needs related to the Instrumental Support and Emotional Support subscales were most frequently rated as unmet. Predictors related to the FNQ-R included family income, gender, and ethnicity. For 4 of 6 subscales, white family members were more likely than minority members to rate needs as unmet. For 3 subscales, females were more likely than males to rate needs as unmet. Greater household income was associated with fewer met needs for 2 subscales. The ranking of met and unmet needs in this study was remarkably similar to previous studies within and outside the United States. Clinicians should not assume that families with relatively higher incomes will experience fewer unmet needs. Through structured assessment, clinicians can reveal perceived needs that might have otherwise been unrecognized and facilitate appropriate supports. The findings provide direction for inpatient program development.

Author(s):