Return-to-Work Management for Workers With Mild Traumatic Head Injury
Presented by Lauren Koth
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This course will address the concepts used for return-to-work planning for workers presenting with concussion-related symptoms following a mild traumatic head injury. Return-to-work planning should involve the clinical team as you work together to address the patient's capabilities and compare their functional level with their job demands. Communication should also include the employer and case adjustor to allow for a smooth transition back to work. Return-to-work strategies should address the physical, cognitive, and environmental aspects of the worker's job. This course will help therapists understand the levels of activity participation and functional progress that will lead to a safe return to work. We will also focus on addressing patient concerns and providing education to allow them to progress through their recovery and promote an optimal return-to-work outcome.
Meet your instructor
Lauren Koth
Dr. Lauren Koth graduated from the University of Wisconsin–Madison in 2013 with her Doctorate of Physical Therapy. She has been practicing in the outpatient neurological and orthopedic settings since graduating. She has taken several continuing educational courses in orthopedics and in vestibular and postconcussion syndrome.…
Chapters & learning objectives
1. Return-to-Work Guidelines
This chapter will review concussion in the workers’ compensation population and review appropriate clinical management. Return-to-work planning should include collaboration with clinicians to address any medical and nonmedical barriers. Return-to-work considerations should include the physical, cognitive, and environmental demands of the job.
2. Review of RTW Stages
In this chapter, we will review the return-to-work stages and address participation and activity goals for each. Progression should be individualized for each patient, and clinicians should identify specific treatment and work modifications for each worker’s job demands. Clear communication with medical clinicians will address patient progress through the stages of recovery, with an ultimate goal of discharge to full duty.
3. Patient Education and Outcomes
This chapter will address patient education and strategies that can be implemented to address effects of concussion on memory and concentration. Primary patient concerns will be addressed to allow for a smooth transition back to prior level of function. Finally, we will review current research on outcomes, explaining the benefits of returning this population to work and predictors of favorable recovery.
