Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is an alteration in brain function caused by an external force. Previous literature among populations affected by interpersonal violence demonstrates associations between TBI with physical health conditions and mood disorders. There are also associations with long term health complications such as post-traumatic stress disorder, substance abuse, suicidality, and cognitive impairments. It is imperative that medical professionals screen for and identify TBI in patients affected by violence.
In this webinar, we will discuss a modified Acute Concussion Evaluation tool utilized in the Emergency Department and Outpatient Clinic to support TBI diagnosis. This tool can also be utilized to demonstrate ongoing protracted impairment of brain function by nonmedical personnel such as law enforcement and prosecutors to enhance justification for charging perpetrators in an effort to improve legal justice for victims. Often, post-traumatic stress symptoms can overlap with TBI symptoms and are left undiagnosed. TBI identification at the earliest point of contact will assist in avoiding repetitive trauma to the brain and help improve long term outcomes of survivors.