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Brickell TA, Wright MM, Sullivan JK, Varbedian NV, Rogers-Yosebashvili AA, French LM, Lange RT. Low resilience is associated with worse health-related quality of life in caregivers of service members and veterans with traumatic brain injury: a longitudinal study. Qual Life Res 2024:10.1007/s11136-024-03680-6. [PMID: 38842645 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-024-03680-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 06/07/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine [a] the association of caregiver health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and service member/veteran (SMV) neurobehavioral outcomes with caregiver resilience; [b] longitudinal change in resilience at the group and individual level; and [c] the magnitude of change at the individual level. METHODS Caregivers (N = 232) of SMVs with traumatic brain injury completed a resilience measure, and 18 caregiver HRQOL and SMV neurobehavioral outcome measures at a baseline evaluation and follow-up evaluation three years later. Caregivers were divided into two resilience groups at baseline and follow-up: [1] Low Resilience (≤ 45 T, baseline n = 99, follow-up n = 93) and [2] High Resilience (> 45 T, baseline n = 133, follow-up n = 139). RESULTS At baseline and follow-up, significant effects were found between Low and High Resilience groups for the majority of outcome measures. There were no significant differences in resilience from baseline to follow-up at the group-mean level. At the individual level, caregivers were classified into four longitudinal resilience groups: [1] Persistently Low Resilience (Baseline + Follow-up = Low Resilience, n = 60), [2] Reduced Resilience (Baseline = High Resilience + Follow-up = Low Resilience, n = 33), [3] Improved Resilience (Baseline = Low Resilience + Follow-up = High Resilience, n = 39), and [4] Persistently High Resilience (Baseline + Follow-up = High Resilience, n = 100). From baseline to follow-up, approximately a third of the Reduced and Improved Resilience groups reported a meaningful change in resilience (≥ 10 T). Nearly all of the Persistently High and Persistently Low Resilience groups did not report meaningful change in resilience (< 10 T). CONCLUSION Resilience was not a fixed state for all caregivers. Early intervention may stall the negative caregiving stress-health trajectory and improve caregiver resilience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey A Brickell
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA.
- General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, MD, USA.
| | - Megan M Wright
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- CICONIX, Annapolis, MD, USA
| | - Jamie K Sullivan
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Nicole V Varbedian
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- CICONIX, Annapolis, MD, USA
| | - Alicia A Rogers-Yosebashvili
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- CICONIX, Annapolis, MD, USA
| | - Louis M French
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rael T Lange
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
- General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, MD, USA
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Conklin JP, Wallace T, McCauley KL, Breitenstein J, Gore RK. Level of Evidence of Telehealth Rehabilitation and Behavioral Health Services for Traumatic Brain Injury: A Scoping Review. J Clin Psychol Med Settings 2024; 31:379-402. [PMID: 37903966 DOI: 10.1007/s10880-023-09981-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023]
Abstract
Traumatic brain injury (TBI) can result in significant impairments in functioning associated with partial or permanent disabilities. Examining the evidence for domain-specific telehealth interventions is necessary to guide the development of effective clinical and research programs for this population. The present scoping review characterizes the level of evidence across a range of TBI-related disabilities and impairments. A literature search was performed across comprehensive databases using search terms related to TBI, rehabilitation, telehealth, and outcome. A total of 19 publications from 17 studies met inclusion criteria. Articles focused on telehealth interventions to improve global, cognitive, emotional, and physical functioning post-TBI. Levels of evidence ranged from 1 to 4 across domains, with predominantly experimental designs (level 1). Outcomes demonstrating improvement or benefit from telehealth treatments were reported across all functional domains (50-80% of studies). Results highlight the potential of telehealth interventions across the span of comprehensive interdisciplinary rehabilitation care. Expanded research is needed on remote treatment options for physical symptoms, for subgroups within TBI populations (i.e., mild TBI, military populations), as well as on remote and hybrid comprehensive rehabilitation programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica P Conklin
- SHARE Military Initiative, Shepherd Center, 80 Peachtree Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30309, USA
| | - Tracey Wallace
- SHARE Military Initiative, Shepherd Center, 80 Peachtree Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30309, USA.
| | - Katherine L McCauley
- SHARE Military Initiative, Shepherd Center, 80 Peachtree Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30309, USA
| | - Jackie Breitenstein
- SHARE Military Initiative, Shepherd Center, 80 Peachtree Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30309, USA
| | - Russell K Gore
- SHARE Military Initiative, Shepherd Center, 80 Peachtree Park Drive NE, Atlanta, GA, 30309, USA
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Merritt VC, Goodwin GJ, Sakamoto MS, Crocker LD, Jak AJ. Symptom Attribution and Neuropsychological Outcomes Among Treatment-Seeking Veterans With a History of Traumatic Brain Injury. J Neuropsychiatry Clin Neurosci 2024; 36:134-142. [PMID: 38192216 DOI: 10.1176/appi.neuropsych.20230067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In this cross-sectional study, the authors aimed to examine relationships between illness perception, measured as symptom attribution, and neurobehavioral and neurocognitive outcomes among veterans with a history of traumatic brain injury (TBI). METHODS This study included 55 treatment-seeking veterans (N=43 with adequate performance validity testing) with a remote history of TBI (80% with mild TBI). Veterans completed a clinical interview, self-report questionnaires, and a neuropsychological assessment. A modified version of the Neurobehavioral Symptom Inventory (NSI) was administered to assess neurobehavioral symptom endorsement and symptom attribution. Composite scores were calculated from standardized cognitive tests to assess specific aspects of objective cognitive functioning, including memory, executive functioning, attention and working memory, and processing speed. RESULTS The symptoms most frequently attributed to TBI included forgetfulness, poor concentration, slowed thinking, and headaches. There was a significant positive association between symptom attribution and overall symptom endorsement (NSI total score) (r=0.675) and endorsement of specific symptom domains (NSI symptom domain scores) (r=0.506-0.674), indicating that greater attribution of symptoms to TBI was associated with greater symptom endorsement. Furthermore, linear regressions showed that symptom attribution was significantly associated with objective cognitive functioning, whereas symptom endorsement generally did not show this relationship. Specifically, greater attribution of symptoms to TBI was associated with worse executive functioning (β=-0.34), attention and working memory (β=-0.43), and processing speed (β=-0.35). CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that veterans who routinely attribute neurobehavioral symptoms to their TBI are at greater risk of experiencing poor long-term outcomes, including elevated symptom endorsement and worse objective cognition. Although more research is needed to understand how illness perception influences outcomes in this population, these preliminary results highlight the importance of early psychoeducation regarding the anticipated course of recovery following TBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria C Merritt
- Psychology and Research Services and Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego (Merritt, Crocker, Jak); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla (Merritt, Jak); Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (Goodwin); Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park (Sakamoto)
| | - Grace J Goodwin
- Psychology and Research Services and Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego (Merritt, Crocker, Jak); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla (Merritt, Jak); Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (Goodwin); Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park (Sakamoto)
| | - McKenna S Sakamoto
- Psychology and Research Services and Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego (Merritt, Crocker, Jak); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla (Merritt, Jak); Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (Goodwin); Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park (Sakamoto)
| | - Laura D Crocker
- Psychology and Research Services and Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego (Merritt, Crocker, Jak); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla (Merritt, Jak); Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (Goodwin); Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park (Sakamoto)
| | - Amy J Jak
- Psychology and Research Services and Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, Veterans Affairs San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego (Merritt, Crocker, Jak); Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla (Merritt, Jak); Department of Psychology, University of Nevada, Las Vegas (Goodwin); Department of Psychology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park (Sakamoto)
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Hoover P, Adirim-Lanza A, Adams RS, Dismuke-Greer CE, French LM, Caban J. Changes in Outpatient Healthcare Utilization and Costs Following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Among Service Members in the Military Health System by Preexisting Behavioral Health Condition Status. J Head Trauma Rehabil 2023; 38:368-379. [PMID: 36854098 DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate changes in healthcare utilization and cost following an index mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) diagnosis among service members (SMs). We hypothesized that differences in utilization and cost will be observed by preexisting behavioral health (BH) diagnosis status. SETTING Direct care outpatient healthcare facilities within the Military Health System. PARTICIPANTS A total of 21 984 active-duty SMs diagnosed with an index mTBI diagnosis between 2017 and 2018. DESIGN This retrospective study analyzed changes in healthcare utilization and cost in military treatment facilities among SMs with an index mTBI diagnosis. Encounter records 1 year before and after mTBI were assessed; preexisting BH conditions were identified in the year before mTBI. MAIN MEASURES Ordinary least squares regressions evaluated difference in the average change of total outpatient encounters and costs among SMs with and with no preexisting BH conditions (eg, posttraumatic stress disorder, adjustment disorder). Additional regressions explored changes in utilization and cost within clinic types (eg, mental health, physical rehabilitation). RESULTS There was a 39.5% increase in overall healthcare utilization during the following year, representing a 34.8% increase in total expenditures. Those with preexisting BH conditions exhibited smaller changes in overall utilization (β, -4.9; [95% confidence interval (CI), -6.1 to -3.8]) and cost (β, $-1873; [95% CI, $-2722 to $-1024]), compared with those with no BH condition. The greatest differences were observed in primary care clinics, in which those with prior BH conditions exhibited an average decreased change of 3.2 encounters (95% CI, -3.5 to -3) and reduced cost of $544 (95% CI, $-599 to $-490) compared with those with no prior BH conditions. CONCLUSION Despite being higher utilizers of healthcare services both pre- and post-mTBI diagnosis, those with preexisting BH conditions exhibited smaller changes in overall cost and utilization. This highlights the importance of considering prior utilization and cost when evaluating the impact of mTBI and other injury events on the Military Health System.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Hoover
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence (NICoE), Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland (Messrs Hoover and Adirim-Lanza and Drs French and Caban); Division of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts (Dr Adams); VA Rocky Mountain Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), Aurora, Colorado (Dr Adams); Health Economics Resource Center (HERC), VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, Palo Alto, California (Dr Dismuke-Greer); and Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland (Dr French)
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Cutler L, Greenacre M, Abeare CA, Sirianni CD, Roth R, Erdodi LA. Multivariate models provide an effective psychometric solution to the variability in classification accuracy of D-KEFS Stroop performance validity cutoffs. Clin Neuropsychol 2023; 37:617-649. [PMID: 35946813 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2022.2073914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/03/2022]
Abstract
ObjectiveThe study was designed to expand on the results of previous investigations on the D-KEFS Stroop as a performance validity test (PVT), which produced diverging conclusions. Method The classification accuracy of previously proposed validity cutoffs on the D-KEFS Stroop was computed against four different criterion PVTs in two independent samples: patients with uncomplicated mild TBI (n = 68) and disability benefit applicants (n = 49). Results Age-corrected scaled scores (ACSSs) ≤6 on individual subtests often fell short of specificity standards. Making the cutoffs more conservative improved specificity, but at a significant cost to sensitivity. In contrast, multivariate models (≥3 failures at ACSS ≤6 or ≥2 failures at ACSS ≤5 on the four subtests) produced good combinations of sensitivity (.39-.79) and specificity (.85-1.00), correctly classifying 74.6-90.6% of the sample. A novel validity scale, the D-KEFS Stroop Index correctly classified between 78.7% and 93.3% of the sample. Conclusions A multivariate approach to performance validity assessment provides a methodological safeguard against sample- and instrument-specific fluctuations in classification accuracy, strikes a reasonable balance between sensitivity and specificity, and mitigates the invalid before impaired paradox.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cutler
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matthew Greenacre
- Schulich School of Medicine, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christopher A Abeare
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Robert Roth
- Department of Psychiatry, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, New Hampshire, USA
| | - Laszlo A Erdodi
- Department of Psychology, Neuropsychology Track, University of Windsor, Windsor, Ontario, Canada
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Remigio-Baker RA, Hungerford LD, Ettenhofer ML, Barnard LL, Babakhanyan I, Ivins B, Stuessi K, Monasterio CDJ, Bailie JM. Presenting symptoms as prognostic measures of mental health recovery among service members with concussion. Front Neurol 2023; 13:1070676. [PMID: 36712430 PMCID: PMC9880328 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1070676] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Comorbid mental illness may negatively impact recovery from concussion. This study evaluated whether the level of symptom clusters at clinic intake contribute to poor mental health recovery in concussed patients during treatment, which may in turn serve as a target intervention. Objective The objective of this study is to examine the association between the level of initial symptoms and mental health symptoms among service members with concussion. Methods Data were obtained from 483 active duty service members treated in interdisciplinary treatment programs for traumatic brain injury, all of which were concussions. Pre-treatment symptom clusters included self-reported hyperarousal, dissociation/depression, cognitive dysfunction/headache and neurological symptoms. The outcomes, clinically-relevant decreases in depressive symptoms (assessed by the 8-item Patient Health Questionnaire, PHQ-8) and PTSD symptoms (assessed by the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5, PCL-5), were defined as a decrease in PHQ-8 > 5 and PCL-5 > 7, respectively. Poisson regression with robust error variance was used to evaluate the relationship between the level of each symptom cluster and clinically-relevant decrease in outcomes. Results Participants with higher (vs. lower) levels of pre-treatment hyperarousal and dissociation/depression symptom cluster were less likely to improve in depressive and PTSD symptoms during treatment. The level of cognitive/headache and neurological symptom clusters were not significantly associated with any symptom changes. Conclusion These findings support the need for individualized treatment for symptoms identified and treated after determining concussion history, with particular attention to high levels of hyperarousal and dissociation/depression prior to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosemay A. Remigio-Baker
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), Silver Spring, MD, United States,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, United States,*Correspondence: Rosemay A. Remigio-Baker ✉
| | - Lars D. Hungerford
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), Silver Spring, MD, United States,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, United States,Naval Medical Center at San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Mark L. Ettenhofer
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), Silver Spring, MD, United States,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, United States,Naval Medical Center at San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States,University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States
| | - Lori L. Barnard
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), Silver Spring, MD, United States,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, United States,Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, Intrepid Spirit 7, Camp Pendleton, CA, United States
| | - Ida Babakhanyan
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), Silver Spring, MD, United States,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, United States,Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, Intrepid Spirit 7, Camp Pendleton, CA, United States
| | - Brian Ivins
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), Silver Spring, MD, United States,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, United States
| | - Keith Stuessi
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), Silver Spring, MD, United States,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, United States
| | - Carlos Diego J. Monasterio
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), Silver Spring, MD, United States,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, United States,Naval Medical Center at San Diego, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Jason M. Bailie
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence (TBICoE), Silver Spring, MD, United States,General Dynamics Information Technology, Falls Church, VA, United States,Naval Hospital Camp Pendleton, Intrepid Spirit 7, Camp Pendleton, CA, United States
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Brickell TA, Wright MM, Sullivan JK, Varbedian NV, Nose KA, Rather LM, Tien NK, French LM, Lange RT. Caregiver sleep impairment and service member and veteran adjustment following traumatic brain injury is related to caregiver health-related quality of life. J Clin Sleep Med 2022; 18:2577-2588. [PMID: 35912703 PMCID: PMC9622982 DOI: 10.5664/jcsm.10164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 06/21/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
STUDY OBJECTIVES To examine the relationship between caregiver sleep impairment and/or service member/veteran (SMV) adjustment post-traumatic brain injury, with caregiver health-related quality of life (HRQOL). METHODS Caregivers (n = 283) completed 18 measures of HRQOL, sleep impairment, and SMV adjustment. Caregivers were classified into 4 sleep impairment/SMV adjustment groups: 1) Good Sleep/Good Adjustment (n = 43), 2) Good Sleep/Poor Adjustment (n = 39), 3) Poor Sleep/Good Adjustment (n = 55), and 4) Poor Sleep/Poor Adjustment (n = 146). RESULTS The Poor Sleep/Poor Adjustment group reported significantly worse scores on most HRQOL measures and a higher prevalence of clinically elevated T-scores (≥ 60T) on the majority of comparisons compared to the other 3 groups. The Good Sleep/Poor Adjustment and Poor Sleep/Good Adjustment groups reported worse scores on the majority of the HRQOL measures and a higher prevalence of clinically elevated scores on 7 comparisons compared to the Good Sleep/Good Adjustment group. Fewer differences were found between the Good Sleep/Poor Adjustment and Poor Sleep/Good Adjustment groups. The Poor Sleep/Poor Adjustment group reported a higher prevalence of severe ratings for SMV Irritability, Anger, and Aggression compared to the Good Sleep/Poor Adjustment group. CONCLUSIONS While the presence of either caregiver sleep impairment or poor SMV adjustment singularly was associated with worse caregiver HRQOL, the presence of both sleep impairment and poor SMV adjustment was associated with further impairment in HRQOL. Caregivers could benefit from sleep intervention. Treatment of SMVs neurobehavioral problems may improve the SMV's recovery and lessen sleep problems, distress, and burden among their caregivers. CITATION Brickell TA, Wright MM, Sullivan JK, et al. Caregiver sleep impairment and service member and veteran adjustment following traumatic brain injury is related to caregiver health-related quality of life. J Clin Sleep Med. 2022;18(11):2577-2588.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey A. Brickell
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
- Contractor, General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Megan M. Wright
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Contractor, General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Jamie K. Sullivan
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Contractor, General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Nicole V. Varbedian
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Contractor, General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Kathryn A. Nose
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Contractor, General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Lauren M. Rather
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Contractor, General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Nicole K. Tien
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Contractor, General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, Maryland
| | - Louis M. French
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland
| | - Rael T. Lange
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland
- Contractor, General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, Maryland
- University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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8
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Is Traumatic Brain Injury Severity in Service Members and Veterans Related to Health-Related Quality of Life in Their Caregivers? J Head Trauma Rehabil 2022; 37:338-349. [PMID: 35862894 DOI: 10.1097/htr.0000000000000802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between service member/veteran (SM/V) traumatic brain injury (TBI) severity with caregiver health-related quality of life (HRQOL). SETTING Military treatment facility. PARTICIPANTS Caregivers (N = 316) of SM/Vs following a TBI divided into 2 groups based on SM/V TBI severity: (1) caregivers of SM/Vs following an uncomplicated mild TBI (UnMTBI Caregiver group, n = 246), and (2) caregivers of SM//Vs following a complicated mild, moderate, severe, or penetrating TBI (STBI Caregiver group, n = 70). The STBI Caregiver group was further divided into 2 subgroups: Parent (n = 21) versus Intimate Partner (n = 49). The UnMTBI Caregiver group consisted of intimate partners. DESIGN Prospective cohort. MAIN MEASURES Caregivers completed 15 HRQOL measures. RESULTS Using analysis of variance and chi-square analysis, the UnMTBI Caregiver group reported worse scores on 12 HRQOL measures and more clinically elevated scores for 6 of 15 comparisons than the STBI Caregiver group. The UnMTBI Caregiver group also reported worse scores on 10 HRQOL measures than intimate partners in the STBI Caregiver group and 5 measures than parents in the STBI Caregiver group. Parents reported worse scores on 3 measures than intimate partners in the STBI Caregiver group. The UnMTBI Caregiver group reported more clinically elevated scores for 7 of 15 comparisons than intimate partners in the STBI Caregiver group. CONCLUSION Intimate partner caregivers of an SM/V following a remote uncomplicated MTBI reported worse HRQOL than intimate partners and parent caregivers of an SM/V following a more severe TBI, mostly likely due to SM/V physical and mental health comorbidities. Interventions that focus on the SM/V's TBI and other comorbidities, the caregiver's behavioral health problems, and the relationship and family factors that interact with each other will likely have the most success in improving individual and family outcomes for military families.
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Fink SJ, Davey DK, Sakamoto MS, Chanfreau-Coffinier C, Clark AL, Delano-Wood L, Merritt VC. Subjective cognitive and psychiatric well-being in U.S. Military Veterans screened for deployment-related traumatic brain injury: A Million Veteran Program Study. J Psychiatr Res 2022; 151:144-149. [PMID: 35483132 PMCID: PMC9406238 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychires.2022.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2021] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to examine subjective cognitive and psychiatric functioning in post-deployed military Veterans who underwent the Veterans Health Administration's Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) Screening and Evaluation Program and enrolled in the VA's Million Veteran Program (MVP). Veterans (N = 7483) were classified into three groups based on outcomes from the TBI Screening and Evaluation Program: (1) negative TBI screen ('Screen-'), (2) positive TBI screen but no TBI diagnosis ('Screen+/TBI-'), or (3) positive TBI screen and TBI diagnosis ('Screen+/TBI+'). Chi-square analyses revealed significant group differences across all self-reported cognitive and psychiatric health conditions (e.g., memory loss, depression), and ANCOVAs similarly showed a significant association between group and subjective symptom reporting. Specifically, the relationship between TBI group and clinical outcome (i.e., health conditions and symptoms) was such that the Screen+/TBI+ group fared the worst, followed by the Screen+/TBI- group, and finally the Screen- group. However, evaluation of effect sizes suggested that Veterans in the two Screen+ groups (Screen+/TBI+ and Screen+/TBI-) are faring similarly to one another on subjective cognitive and psychiatric functioning, but that both Screen+ groups are faring significantly worse than the Screen- group. Our results have meaningful clinical implications and suggest that Veterans who screen positive for TBI, regardless of ultimate TBI diagnosis, be eligible for similar clinical services so that both groups can benefit from valuable treatments and therapeutics. Finally, this research sets the stage for follow-up work to be conducted within MVP that will address the neurobiological underpinnings of cognitive and psychiatric distress in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shayna J Fink
- Veterans Medical Research Foundation, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Delaney K Davey
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States
| | - McKenna S Sakamoto
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Catherine Chanfreau-Coffinier
- VA Informatics and Computing Infrastructure (VINCI), VA Salt Lake City Health Care System, Salt Lake City, UT, United States
| | - Alexandra L Clark
- Department of Psychology, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX, United States
| | - Lisa Delano-Wood
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States; Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, United States
| | - Victoria C Merritt
- Research Service, VA San Diego Healthcare System (VASDHS), San Diego, CA, United States; Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, United States; Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health, VASDHS, San Diego, CA, United States.
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10
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Brickell TA, Wright MM, Ferdosi H, French LM, Lange RT. Pain interference and health-related quality of life in caregivers of service members and veterans with traumatic brain injury and mental health comorbidity. Qual Life Res 2022; 31:3031-3039. [PMID: 35594013 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-022-03153-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To examine (1) the relationship between caregiver pain interference with caregiver health-related quality of life (HRQOL), caregiver age, and service member/veteran (SMV) functional ability, and (2) change in caregiver pain interference longitudinally over 5 years. METHOD Participants were 347 caregivers of SMVs diagnosed with traumatic brain injury (TBI). Caregivers completed the SF-12v2 Health Survey Bodily Pain scale at an initial baseline evaluation and up to four annual follow-up evaluations. Caregivers were divided into three pain interference groups: High Pain Interference (n = 104), Neutral Pain Interference (n = 117), and Low Pain Interference (n = 126). Caregivers also completed 15 HRQOL measures and a measure of SMV functional ability. RESULTS The High Pain Interference group reported more clinically elevated scores on 13 measures compared to the Low Pain Interference group, and seven measures compared to the Neutral Pain Interference group. The Neutral Pain Interference group had more clinically elevated scores on three measures compared to the Low Pain Interference group. The High and Neutral Pain Interference groups were older than the Low Pain Interference group. Parent caregivers were older than intimate partner/sibling caregivers, but did not report worse pain interference. Caregiver age, and measures of Fatigue, Strain, Perceived Rejection, and Economic QOL were the strongest predictors of pain interference (p < .001), accounting for 28.2% of the variance. There was minimal change in Bodily Pain scores over five years. The interaction of time and age was not significant (X2 = 2.7, p = .61). CONCLUSION It is important to examine pain in the context of HRQOL in caregivers, regardless of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tracey A Brickell
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA. .,National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA. .,Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA. .,General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, MD, USA.
| | - Megan M Wright
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.,National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.,General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, MD, USA
| | - Hamid Ferdosi
- General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, MD, USA.,Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Silver Spring, MD, USA.,The George Washington University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Louis M French
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.,National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.,Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Rael T Lange
- Traumatic Brain Injury Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.,National Intrepid Center of Excellence, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD, USA.,General Dynamics Information Technology, Silver Spring, MD, USA.,University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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11
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Fordal L, Stenberg J, Iverson GL, Saksvik SB, Karaliute M, Vik A, Olsen A, Skandsen T. Trajectories of Persistent Postconcussion Symptoms and Factors Associated with Symptom Reporting after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury. Arch Phys Med Rehabil 2021; 103:313-322. [PMID: 34695386 DOI: 10.1016/j.apmr.2021.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the trajectories of persistent postconcussion symptoms (PPCS) after mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) and to investigate which injury-related and personal factors are associated with symptom reporting. DESIGN Prospective longitudinal cohort study. Follow-up at 3 and 12 months postinjury. SETTING A level 1 trauma center and an emergency outpatient clinic. PARTICIPANTS Patients with MTBI (n=358), trauma controls (n=75), and community controls (n=78). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Symptoms were assessed with the British Columbia Postconcussion Symptom Inventory. Participants were categorized as having moderate to severe PPCS (msPPCS) when reporting ≥3 moderate/severe symptoms or a BC-PSI total score of ≥13. BC-PSI total scores were compared between the groups and were further used to create cut-offs for reliable change by identifying uncommon and very uncommon change in symptoms in the community control group. Associations between symptom reporting and 25 injury-related and personal factors were examined. RESULTS The MTBI group had a similar prevalence of msPPCS at 3 and 12 months (21%), and reported more symptoms than the control groups. Analyses of individual trajectories, however, revealed considerable change in both msPPCS and BC-PSI total scores in the MTBI group, where both worsening and improvement was common. Intracranial lesions on CT were associated with a greater likelihood of improving from 3 to 12 months. Those with msPPCS at both assessments were more likely to be women and to have these personal preinjury factors: reduced employment, pain, poor sleep, low resilience, high neuroticism and pessimism, and a psychiatric history. CONCLUSIONS Group analyses suggest a stable prevalence of msPPCS the first year postinjury. However, there was considerable intra-individual change. Several personal factors were associated with maintaining symptoms throughout the first year.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Fordal
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Jonas Stenberg
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Department of Neurosurgery, St Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Grant L Iverson
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA; Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital and Spaulding Research Institute, Charlestown, MA, USA; Home Base, A Red Sox Foundation and Massachusetts General Hospital Program, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Simen B Saksvik
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Migle Karaliute
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Department of Neurology and Clinical Neurophysiology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Anne Vik
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Department of Neurosurgery, St Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Alexander Olsen
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Toril Skandsen
- Department of Neuromedicine and Movement Science, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway; Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.
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12
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Sweet JJ, Heilbronner RL, Morgan JE, Larrabee GJ, Rohling ML, Boone KB, Kirkwood MW, Schroeder RW, Suhr JA. American Academy of Clinical Neuropsychology (AACN) 2021 consensus statement on validity assessment: Update of the 2009 AACN consensus conference statement on neuropsychological assessment of effort, response bias, and malingering. Clin Neuropsychol 2021; 35:1053-1106. [PMID: 33823750 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2021.1896036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 144] [Impact Index Per Article: 48.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Objective: Citation and download data pertaining to the 2009 AACN consensus statement on validity assessment indicated that the topic maintained high interest in subsequent years, during which key terminology evolved and relevant empirical research proliferated. With a general goal of providing current guidance to the clinical neuropsychology community regarding this important topic, the specific update goals were to: identify current key definitions of terms relevant to validity assessment; learn what experts believe should be reaffirmed from the original consensus paper, as well as new consensus points; and incorporate the latest recommendations regarding the use of validity testing, as well as current application of the term 'malingering.' Methods: In the spring of 2019, four of the original 2009 work group chairs and additional experts for each work group were impaneled. A total of 20 individuals shared ideas and writing drafts until reaching consensus on January 21, 2021. Results: Consensus was reached regarding affirmation of prior salient points that continue to garner clinical and scientific support, as well as creation of new points. The resulting consensus statement addresses definitions and differential diagnosis, performance and symptom validity assessment, and research design and statistical issues. Conclusions/Importance: In order to provide bases for diagnoses and interpretations, the current consensus is that all clinical and forensic evaluations must proactively address the degree to which results of neuropsychological and psychological testing are valid. There is a strong and continually-growing evidence-based literature on which practitioners can confidently base their judgments regarding the selection and interpretation of validity measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jerry J Sweet
- Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA
| | | | | | | | - Martin L Rohling
- Psychology Department, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA
| | - Kyle B Boone
- California School of Forensic Studies, Alliant International University, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Michael W Kirkwood
- Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children's Hospital Colorado, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Ryan W Schroeder
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Kansas School of Medicine, Wichita, KS, USA
| | - Julie A Suhr
- Psychology Department, Ohio University, Athens, OH, USA
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13
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Young G. Thirty Complexities and Controversies in Mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Persistent Post-concussion Syndrome: a Roadmap for Research and Practice. PSYCHOLOGICAL INJURY & LAW 2020. [DOI: 10.1007/s12207-020-09395-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
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14
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Belanger HG. Introduction to a special issue on military neuropsychology: Serving those who serve. Clin Neuropsychol 2020; 34:1065-1069. [PMID: 32619383 DOI: 10.1080/13854046.2020.1786605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The military has a long history with neuropsychology and its precursors. From developing intelligence tests during World War I, to developing early capacity and personality assessments during World War II, to forward deploying for the evaluation and treatment of frequent concussive brain injuries during more recent conflicts, clinical neuropsychology has been at the forefront of military selection, healthcare and research. The objective of this special issue is to provide an overview of the latest clinical research relevant to military neuropsychology-some contributors address assessment and treatment issues that are relevant to current practice and others foretell the future of our field. METHOD We solicited papers from established researchers and issued a general call for papers for the special issue on military neuropsychology. Results: We received submissions from several authors, eleven of which are included in this issue. These submissions cover assessment and treatment issues, as well as healthcare utilization and return to duty issues. Two apparent themes are the importance of assessing, treating, and attending to comorbidities following traumatic brain injury (TBI) and future assessment techniques moving beyond traditional cognitive performance assessment. CONCLUSIONS The issue highlights the importance of research in clinical neuropsychology to the practice and advancement of military neuropsychology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather G Belanger
- United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM), Departments of Psychology and Psychiatry and Behavioral Neurosciences, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, USA.,St Michael's Inc, Tampa, FL, USA
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