Brain injury patients struggle in team meetings, study finds
A new study reveals that patients recovering from acquired brain injuries often cannot meaningfully participate in their own care meetings early in rehabilitation, due to cognitive overload. The finding challenges assumptions about patient-centered care and suggests healthcare systems need to redesign how they involve patients in treatment planning.
Originaltitel: Patient participation in team meetings - experiences of individuals with cognitive communication disorders after acquired brain injury
<p>PurposePatient participation is a key aspect of person-centered care. In rehabilitation settings, team meetings gathering the patient, rehabilitation team, and family members are an important tool to achieve patient participation. However, such meetings may represent a challenge for persons with cognitive communication disorder (CCD). This study aimed to explore the experiences of participation in team meetings among individuals with CCD.Materials and methodsSemi-structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 13 participants with CCD. Data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis.ResultsThe analysis yielded four categories: Defining patient participation for oneself; Overload disrupts communication; Factors facilitating communication; and Making the journey easier - recommendations for the future. Results indicate a mismatch between participants' abilities and the complexity and cognitive load at the meeting, particularly early in the rehabilitation process. An overarching theme captured that patient participation is not present from start, but may develop as insights, skills, and adaptations evolve during the rehabilitation process.ConclusionMerely attending a meeting does not ensure patient participation. To facilitate patient participation for individuals with CCD, the communication challenges must be addressed. The results offer insights about how team meetings could be arranged to meet the needs of individuals with CCD.</p>