Functional Outcome and Community Reintegration of Survivors Following Disasters

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the study is to evaluate functional outcomes and community reintegration of disaster survivors in Pakistan. Methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study of community-based participants at the Armed Forces Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine, Pakistan. The medical records were screened for eligibility of adults with disaster-related disability. Participants were interviewed in ambulatory clinics using validated measures: Neurological-Trauma Impairment Scale (NIS-Trauma), International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health-Generic Set, Community Integration Measure (CIM), Community Integration Questionnaire (CIQ), and EuroQol 5-Dimension 5-Level. Results: Participants were (n = 117, mean age = 35 years) with postdisaster injury up to 17 years; the majority had spinal cord injury (n = 62; 53%) and amputations (n = 44; 38%). At assessment, 80% were independent with mobility (with aids) and 29% with everyday living activities. They reported ongoing fatigue (54.7%), altered sensations (51.28%), and pain (50.43%), but fewer problems with mood and emotions. The impairment severity negatively impacted community activities (NIS-Trauma vs. CIQ: P < 0.001). As impairments improved with time (NIS-Trauma vs. time since injury: P = 0.003), so did community reintegration (time since injury vs. CIQ; P < 0.001) and perceived health status (time since injury vs. EuroQol; P = 0.001). Conclusion: Many participants reported various ongoing disability-related issues; however, majority were dependent with everyday living activities and well adapted in the community. Further robust studies are needed for evaluation of longer-term impact of the disability in disaster victims for the comprehensive healthcare in the community.