Scoping review of return-to-work interventions for persons with traumatic brain injury

Abstract

Purpose The study approach sought to understand which vocational rehabilitation (VR) strategies are available for individuals seeking return to work (RTW) following traumatic brain injury (TBI). Secondly, the review aimed to identify how these RTW interventions and outcomes are evaluated. Materials and Methods Using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) approach, the scoping review began by identifying relevant English language articles via PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Embase databases for peer-reviewed journal articles published from January 2013 to September 2021. The review focused on identifying studies with a sample population of people with moderate to severe TBI. Results A total of 23 studies met the search criteria. For each included study, the following data were extracted: (a) country of origin, (b) sample size, (c) civilian or military sample population, (d) age, (e) participant gender, (f) RTW definition, (g) intervention approach, and (h) RTW outcome. The results were synthesized by placement into one of four categories as a function of the study’s underlying methodological approach Conclusions The development of effective RTW approaches has largely been neglected in the rehabilitation literature for persons with TBI in civilian and military populations. Effective strategies do exist to help guide efforts to return this population to productive activity, including work. Implications for Rehabilitation Lack of productive engagement in work and school among persons with traumatic brain injury (TBI) presents a chronic challenge in rehabilitation systems internationally. Rehabilitation professionals should utilize multidisciplinary and integrated return-to-work (RTW) interventions given the varied areas of function that can result from TBI. Rehabilitation professionals should apply RTW interventions that promote on-site training and workplace integration. Given the idiosyncratic nature of TBI, RTW interventions should be tailored to meet the specific needs of the person seeking support.