Assessing Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Residency Education Using the Neurological Assessment Competency Evaluation System.

Competent neurologic examination and clinical skills are essential components in the care for patients in acute hospital and rehabilitation settings. To enhance the evaluation and education of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation residents, the authors developed an educational objective structured clinical examination, the Neurological Exam Assessment Competency Evaluation System, and gathered 2 yrs of baseline data. The Neurological Exam Assessment Competency Evaluation System consisted of nine 9-min examination stations, seven with written clinical scenario with instructions for junior residents to complete the appropriate examination (stations: Altered Mental Status, Mild Traumatic Brain Injury, Dementia, Stroke, Falls, and the International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury Sensory and Motor Examinations).

Rehabilitation Needs of the Elder with Traumatic Brain Injury.

The incidence of traumatic brain injury (TBI) in older adults is increasing. As the expected life expectancy increases, there is a heightened need for comprehensive rehabilitation for this population. Elderly patients with TBI benefit from rehabilitation interventions at all stages of injury and can achieve functional gains during acute inpatient rehabilitation.