Communication difficulties among adults with traumatic brain injuries attending Mulago National Referral Hospital, Neural Clinic

Abstract

Traumatic brain injuries are common among adults and they result in disabilities which may include communication difficulties. These communication difficulties affect the way of life of individuals in several ways. Objective: To determine the effects of traumatic brain injuries on communication among Adults attending Mulago National Referral Hospital, Neural Clinic. Methodology: A cross sectional study was done and the sample was chosen using conservative sampling. Results: Of the 45 patients recruited, 41 had TBI secondary to RTA, 3 to a fall and 1 to an assault. Ninety-nine had their hearing intact after the injury. Over 31% had difficulties in comprehension, about 5% had difficulties in expression and over 28% had difficulties in participating in social communication. Of the 42 who were employed before the injury, only 17 remained employed after the injury. Three of the 35 previously married divorced/separated. 43 among the 45 patients stopped participating in the recreational activities they used to participate in before the injury. Conclusion: Road Traffic Accidents are the leading causes of Traumatic Brain Injuries. Traumatic Brain injuries are most common amongst males. These injuries result in different communication difficulties. These difficulties subsequently affect the quality of life of individuals