Comparison of FIM™ communication ratings for English versus non-English speakers in the traumatic brain injury model systems (TBIMS) national database

Model System:

TBI

Reference Type:

Journal

Accession No.:

J72817

Journal:

Brain Injury

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

2015 , 29, 12, 1445-1451

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study examined the effect of primary language on rehabilitation admission and discharge FIM™ communication ratings in individuals with moderate-to-severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) who underwent a comprehensive rehabilitation program. A secondary data analysis was conducted of rehabilitation admission and discharge FIM™ communication ratings for 2,795 individuals hospitalized at a TBI Model Systems center between 2007 and 2012. Despite the fact that no significant disparities existed at admission, individuals who spoke no English were rated worse on functional communication outcomes at discharge compared to individuals whose primary language was English. These findings may reflect systematic bias in FIM™ communication ratings of non-English-speaking individuals with TBI and/or TBI-induced communication difficulties in non-English-speaking individuals. Clinical and research implications are discussed.

Author(s):

Lequerica, Anthony, Krch, Denise, Lengenfelder, Jean, Chiaravalloti, Nancy, Arango-Lasprilla, Juan C., Hammond, Flora M., O'Neil-Pirozzi, Therese M., Perrin, Paul B., Sander, Angelle M.