On this episode of Neuro Navigators,⁠Kristen Keech⁠ and⁠Jessica Asiello⁠ join host⁠J. J. Mowder-Tinney ⁠to tackle a vital and often misunderstood topic: disorders of consciousness (DoC). Together, we bust myths, consider ethical challenges, and offer actionable insights grounded in cutting-edge research, including recent clinical practice guidelines. How can we ensure equitable access to treatment and avoid strikingly common pitfalls like misdiagnosis or premature withdrawal of care? Tune in to explore evidence-based practices, practical strategies, and inspiring examples that challenge us to rethink what’s possible for these patients.

Learning Objectives

• Interpret the evidence around rehab professionals’ role in assessment and recovery of consciousness
• Apply evidence-based, practical strategies to actionably address gaps in knowledge translation to ensure implementation of best practices when managing individuals with disorders of consciousness
• Solve patient case scenarios involving individuals at various levels of consciousness

Timestamps

• (00:00:00) Welcome
• (00:00:50) Introduction to guests and disorders of consciousness (DoC)
• (00:02:20) Personal journeys and passion for DoC
• (00:06:05) Misconceptions and clinical questions
• (00:09:23) Assessment techniques and team collaboration
• (00:13:29) Recent research and evidence-based practice
• (00:23:10) Understanding disorders of consciousness
• (00:25:33) Multimodal approaches in rehabilitation
• (00:27:45) Assessment tools and techniques
• (00:29:13) Importance of documentation
• (00:31:45) Individualizing patient care
• (00:33:15) Engaging families in therapy
• (00:36:25) Overcoming barriers in treatment
• (00:39:58) Empowering clinicians
• (00:41:14) Actionable takeaways for clinicians
• (00:43:17) Case studies in practice
• (00:49:11) Final thoughts and inspiration

Resources Mentioned in Episode

• ⁠Practice guideline update recommendations summary: Disorders of consciousness⁠

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