April 1, 2025
Understanding Brain Injury: A Guide for Personal Support Workers

Brain injuries are a common and serious consequence of accidents such as motor vehicle collisions, falls, or workplace incidents. As a Personal Support Worker (PSW), you are a crucial part of the recovery team for individuals going through rehabilitation. Your understanding, patience, and daily support can make a profound difference in a client’s quality of life.

What Is a Brain Injury?

A brain injury occurs when there is a sudden trauma to the head or brain that disrupts normal brain function. These injuries are classified as either:

  • Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Caused by external force (e.g., blow to the head, fall, car crash).
  • Acquired Brain Injury (ABI): Caused by internal factors (e.g., stroke, lack of oxygen).

This article focuses on TBI, which is frequently caused by accidents.

Common Effects of Brain Injury

Brain injuries vary widely in severity and symptoms. Your client may experience:

  • Physical changes: fatigue, headaches, dizziness, poor balance, mobility issues.
  • Cognitive challenges: memory problems, difficulty focusing, slower processing.
  • Emotional/behavioral issues: mood swings, irritability, depression, impulsiveness.
  • Communication problems: trouble finding words, understanding others, or expressing thoughts.

These effects may be invisible, unpredictable, and change over time.

Your Role as a PSW

While you do not provide medical treatment, your support in daily care is essential. Here’s how you can help:

1. Promote Safety and Structure

  • Reduce risks of falls or re-injury.
  • Maintain a calm, structured routine to reduce confusion or agitation.
  • Use visual cues, lists, or memory aids if recommended by therapists.

2. Support Emotional Well-Being

  • Show empathy and listen actively.
  • Stay calm during moments of frustration.
  • Report concerning behaviors or changes to your supervisor or rehab team.

3. Work as a Team

  • Follow the care plan developed by Occupational Therapists, Speech-Language Pathologists, or other regulated professionals.
  • Keep communication open with the rehab team about progress or concerns.
  • Document and report changes in the client’s behavior, mood, or function.

Tips for Daily Care

  • Provide hands-on assistance for tasks the client cannot do or have difficulty with due to their injury.
  • Allow extra time for activities.
  • Reduce noise and distractions when helping with tasks or communicating.
  • Encourage rest breaks, as fatigue is common after a brain injury.
  • Follow the direction of the rehab team and regulated professionals that we work with.

Final Thoughts

Every brain injury is unique, and recovery can be a long and challenging journey. As a PSW, your compassionate care, consistency, and attention to detail provide a strong foundation for healing and dignity. By understanding the challenges and staying informed, you become an invaluable support in your client’s life after injury.

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