Outcome evaluation of the Massey University Concussion Clinic: a pilot study : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Psychology at Massey University, Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Date
2009
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Massey University
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Abstract
The primary aim of the present study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the
intervention provided by Massey University Concussion Clinic for individuals
following Mild Traumatic Brain Injury (MTBI). Concussion Clinics were set up across
New Zealand to provide early intervention and assessment for individuals with MTBI
to prevent long term complaints. Treatment outcomes at these clinics have not been
empirically examined before. The current study compared the levels of post concussion
symptoms, anxiety, depression, and psychosocial functioning between an intervention
and a control group using a quasi-experimental design. In addition, reasons for nonattendance
to the clinic, and participants’ perceptions of their recovery were also
explored. The main outcome measures used were the Rivermead Postconcussion
Symptoms Questionnaire, the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and the Sydney
Psychosocial Reintegration Scale-2. Outcomes were initially assessed soon after injury
or referral to the clinic and then three months later. Participants were recruited from the
Palmerston North Hospital Emergency Department and the Massey University
Concussion Clinic. With 20 participants in the intervention group and 15 in the control
group, the main results showed that the Concussion Clinic intervention significantly
decreased the level of anxiety and depression reported by participants in the
intervention group over the control group. Greater improvements in post concussion
symptoms and psychosocial functioning were also indicated in the intervention group.
Additional findings suggest difficulty with transportation as a reason for nonattendance,
which could be a potential barrier to recovery. Furthermore, participants
highlighted the benefits of attending the service and its role in their recovery. Important
issues relating to the referral processes were also identified. Findings of the current
study suggest that the Concussion Clinic intervention is effective in improving recovery
for those accessing the service. Nevertheless, these results must be interpreted with
caution due to the small sample size. Further research is warranted to examine the
effectiveness of the Concussion Clinics with larger samples, and the current study may
serve as a valuable pilot for these future investigations.
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Keywords
Mild traumatic brain injury, Post-concussion symptoms, Psychosocial functioning