Caring for a Traumatic Brain Injury Victim
When a person sustains a traumatic brain injury (TBI), the family, as well as the victim is affected. Caregivers of TBI injury victims can experience feelings of distress, anxiety, anger, and depression.
Are you the primary caregiver for a child, relative or close friend with TBI? This can be a very stressful situation. It is important that you are aware of the stresses and take the appropriate steps for ensure your well-being, so you are able to provide the TBI support that is needed. Become educated about TBI and its effects, find a good support group, these two things can make a difference in managing your caretaker responsibilities.
Immediately After a TBI
The first days, weeks, and months after TBI can be the most difficult time. You are probably spending a lot of time in the ICU, surrounded by unfamiliar technology and different information being provided by doctors and nurses. The patient could have good days of progress followed by setbacks. You could feel that the road to recovery will never end.
Ask friends and other family members to help you while you are staying at the hospital. Help with things like laundry, meal prep, the lawn, watching small children and taking care of pets can help helpful and take something off your plate. You must remember to look after yourself. Ask some close family and friends if they can help at the hospital so you can go home and get some rest.
Traumatic Brain Injury Rehabilitation
Once a TBI patient is stable, they can usually begin a rehabilitation program. The patient may not be aware of their injuries until they resume some normal activities such as personal care, which can cause them to become agitated. This part of the recovery can be frightening, but this is actually a positive sign that the brain is beginning to recover. Make sure you and your family are providing support to help the patient through this difficult time.
Managing TBI in the Home
Just because a TBI patient returns home, does not mean they will resume life as it once was. There are still many unanswered questions: Will they be able to return to school or work? And if so, when? How and when will the family regain a sense of normalcy? No one is ever prepared for all of the challenges that a TBI injury will cause. Family roles may have to be redefined and finances can become a burden. Brain injuries can be life altering events. Information and support can help family understand how to make the best decisions about life with a brain injury.
Get Help from a Traumatic Brain Injury Attorney
Are you caring for someone who recently endured a TBI in an accident that was outside of their control? Is someone else responsible for their injury? You need to help them get the just compensation they may deserve for their pain and suffering. The attorneys at Hardee. Massey & Blodgett, LLP have successfully represented victims of TBI in Pitt County and eastern North Carolina. Our attorneys have the experience, compassion, and resources to fight for the rights of individuals with TBI. Call us for a free initial consultation. We will do everything we can to help you achieve the outcome you may be entitled to, call us at 252-378-2525.