This study examined the functional improvement made by 66 patients who participated in a comprehensive traumatic brain injury rehabilitation program, specified the efficiency of gains made, identified the characteristics of patients who made the most efficient gains, and described postdischarge outcomes. Therapists reported functional ratings at admission and discharge, and interviewers called patients at home 3 months after discharge. Improvements in self-care and mobility skills were achieved during rehabilitation and were maintained at follow-up. Age was related to the extent of possible gains and rate of gains but not to the absolute functional level attained. Admission functional status was related to discharge function and length of stay; discharge function predicted follow-up function. Intensive outpatient rehabilitation services are needed by some patients if gains achieved during inpatient rehabilitation are to be maintained after discharge.
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