Written Versus Verbal Education for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Written Versus Verbal Education for Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) is a common injury that involves loss of consciousness or alteration in mental status induced by an external mechanical force to the head. Education about symptoms and reassurance of a prompt recovery usually results in full recovery. However, a subgroup appears to have persistent symptoms and disability. This study will recruit MTBI patients from two Emergency Departments with the aim of identifying modifiable patient characteristics that can delay or prevent full recovery. A secondary aim is to determine if providing education in writing or in-person makes a difference.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Confirmation of a likely concussion without hospital admission
• Participants live locally with a fixed address
• Participants experience at least one new symptom

Exclusion Criteria:

• Participants who cannot understand/read English