Abstract Details

Title Screening for traumatic brain injury in a domestic violence and family shelter population and a model program for treatment

Topic Neuro Trauma, Critical Care, and Sports Neurology

Presentation(s) Sports Neurology and Neuro Trauma Posters (7:00 AM-5:00 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 007

Objective To determine the prevalence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a homeless population living in family and domestic violence shelters.

Background Vulnerable populations, including domestic violence survivors, commonly sustain traumatic brain injuries and lack appropriate education and medical care for management. Some studies have evaluated results of TBI screening among domestic violence survivors, but none have been conducted specifically in a shelter population.

Design/Methods Through a collaborative relationship with local domestic violence and family shelters, all shelter staff were educated regarding TBI screening using the validated HELPS brain injury screening tool. All incoming residents to the shelters completed the TBI screen. De-identified screens from three shelters were collected and analyzed to determine prevalence of positive screens, prevalence of a history of head trauma and prevalence of potentially recovered TBI.

Results In total, 578 HELPS screening tools were collected for this study. Overall, 374/578 (64.7%) tested positive per HELPS criteria. A total of 421/578 (72.8%) screened almost positive, but denied current symptoms, which are required by the screen for technical positivity. Finally, 490/578 (84.8%) endorsed a history of at least one hit to the head.

Conclusions This study concluded that almost two thirds of a shelter population screened positive for traumatic brain injury, and those subjects reported continued symptoms consistent with TBI. Furthermore, almost 85% of respondents endorsed a history of head trauma. The Barrow Domestic Violence Brain Injury Program was developed in 2012 via a collaboration with local shelters to screen all incoming residents, then provide grant-funded TBI care to residents who warranted and desired treatment. This study supports the need for universal TBI screening and care for this population.

Authors/Disclosures
Glynnis Zieman, MD, MPH, FAAN (Barrow Neurological Institute) PRESENTER	Dr. Zieman has received personal compensation in the range of $10,000-$49,999 for serving as a Consultant for National Football League.
Javier Cardenas, MD, FAAN (Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute)	Dr. Cardenas has received personal compensation in the range of $50,000-$99,999 for serving as a Consultant for NFL. Dr. Cardenas has a non-compensated relationship as a Vice chair Head, Neck & Spine Committee with NFL that is relevant to AAN interests or activities.

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