Agitation in pediatric brain injury: a useful communication or a hurdle to overcome?

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Deaton, Ann V.^{; *} | Metzger, Stephanie | Maillet Wheeler, Amy

Affiliations: Children's Hospital, Richmond, VA, 2924 Brook Rd., Richmond, VA, 23220, USA

Correspondence: [*] Corresponding author. Tel.: + 1804 2285880.

Abstract: Children and adolescents who sustain brain injuries often experience episodic agitation during the course of their recovery. In the early stages after an injury, agitation may be the direct effect of the neurological insult itself as well as the child's response to physical pain and to his or her confusing surroundings. Later during the recovery process, agitation may occur in response to increasing demands made of the child and in response to feelings of loss. Children's agitation is best managed by viewing it as a communication and attempting to provide the child with comfort, support, and alternative ways to communicate. Health care staff and family members can remain therapeutic if they understand the underlying factors driving agitation and recognize it as a transient phase of recovery.

Keywords: Agitation, Pediatric brain injury, Disinhibition, Rehabilitation, Aggression

DOI: 10.3233/NRE-1995-5406

Journal: NeuroRehabilitation, vol. 5, no. 4, pp. 317-321, 1995