Effect of integrative nursing practices on cognitive recovery among severe traumatic brain injury patients

Sahar Younes Othman, Alaa Mostafa Mohamed, Azza Hamdi El-Soussi, Sherif Ahmed Abd El-Monaem, Fatma Refaat Ahmed

Abstract


Background and objective: Cognitive recovery after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the biggest challenge facing the critical care nurses (CCNs). Several studies have been reported that the majority of CCNs are concerned with providing conventional nursing practices to severe TBI patients. These practices are directed to stabilize patients’ status rather than to enhance cognitive recovery after TBI. Application of integrative nursing practices for TBI patients can help in enhancing cognitive recovery. Aim: This study aimed to determine the effect of integrative nursing practices on cognitive recovery among severe traumatic brain injury patients.

Methods: A quasi experimental research design was utilized. A convenience sample was conducted on 60 adult patients suffering from severe TBI who admitted to the intensive care units of Alexandria Main University Hospital. Patients were assigned into study group (30 patients) and control group (30 patients). One tool was used for data collection namely “Cognitive Recovery Assessment Tool”. This tool was used to assess recovery of cognitive function domains. It consists of level of consciousness using Full Outline of Un-Responsiveness (FOUR) score, level of cognitive functioning using Rancho Los Amigos (RLA) scale and basic cognitive sensory recovery assessment using Western Neuro Sensory Stimulation Profile (WNSSP) scale.

Results: The implementation of integrative nursing practices for the study group was associated with statistically significant positive effects. Patients in the study group showed higher means of consciousness revealed by FOUR score and cognitive function revealed by RLA scale. The basic cognitive sensory recovery revealed by WNSSP scale in the study group was also significantly improved.

Conclusions: Implementation of integrative nursing practices has been shown to enhance cognitive recovery among severe TBI patients. Thus, it is recommended for use in a nurse’s daily routine of care for severe TBI patients.


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.5430/jnep.v10n10p75

Journal of Nursing Education and Practice

ISSN 1925-4040 (Print)   ISSN 1925-4059 (Online)

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