Those in South Carolina and elsewhere who have suffered major brain injuries may find that the care they need after the fact can be rather extensive. The initial treatment of head injuries and the following rehabilitative care will vary from person to person, based on the severity of the injuries suffered. Sadly, the time and financial resources exhausted for care can be economically and psychologically devastating to the patient and his or her family members.
Depending on the type and severity of head injury suffered, different treatment and rehabilitative options may be used. After a traumatic brain injury (TBI), the first line of treatment is generally emergent then intensive care. During a stay at an intensive care unit (ICU), patients receive round the clock care from medical professionals. Different equipment may be used depending on the needs of the patient. A person will typically be held in an ICU until their body is considered in stable condition and ready to begin the rehabilitative process.
Rehabilitation often begins in a hospital setting. Patients may then be moved to other treatment centers, receive outpatient therapy or in-home therapy. Some individuals who have suffered severe impairment as a result of their head injuries may not be able to return home and will require living in a treatment center full-time.
Along with receiving medical care, medications are often used to treat brain injuries. A physician will prescribe what he or she feels is necessary based on the needs of the patient, and will be required to closely monitor how the patient is doing. Examples of commonly prescribed medications include:
- Pain relievers
- Anti-depressants
- Seizure medications
- Muscle relaxants
- Stimulants
Head injuries can occur in a number of situations — such as car accidents, recreational accidents or due to medical mistakes. Those who have experienced such injuries due to another person’s negligence may be able to seek damages for all that they have lost and for their current and future care. An experienced personal injury attorney can help file and litigate the appropriate legal claims in a South Carolina civil court.
Source: biausa.org, “Brain Injury Treatment“, Accessed on Feb. 17, 2016