Download Brain Injury Fact Sheet

Brain Injury Fact Sheet
Definition
Acquired brain injury (ABI) is a non-degenerative injury to the brain that has occurred since birth. The
term acquired brain injury includes traumatic brain injuries (TBI), such as open or closed head injuries,
and non-traumatic brain injuries. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) is defined as a blow or jolt to the head or a
penetrating head injury that disrupts brain function. A non-traumatic brain injury can be the result of a
stroke or aneurism, seizure activity, brain tumor, infectious disease, substance abuse or loss of oxygen to
the brain.
Characteristics and Educational Implications
ABI is characterized by changes in cognitive, emotional, behavioral or physiological functioning. These
changes can be temporary or permanent and will frequently include a combination of:
· Impaired memory
· Disorganization
· Confusion
· Poor concentration
· Difficulty problem-solving
· Impaired thought processing speed
· Decreased tolerance for frustration
· Poor judgment
· Increased irritability
· Anger management issues
· Depression
· Impulsivity
· Loss of balance or coordination
· Fatigue
· Seizures
· Frequent headaches or nausea
Suggestions for Students
- Learn about ABI. The more you know, the more you can help yourself.
- Work with health professionals to understand your specific injury and treatment plan. Ask questions and
make suggestions.
- Utilize the services provided by Student Disability Services.
- Build organization and time management skills.
- Become an advocate for yourself and let your professors know what you need.
Suggestions and Instructional Strategies for Faculty
- Summarize information as it its being taught.
- Provide clear guidelines and expectations about the course, including time-lines.
- Post rules, schedules, and assignments. Provide reminders and call attention to any changes in the
schedule.
- Make sure directions are given step by step. Give directions both verbally and in writing.
- Combine lectures with classroom demonstration, visuals and videos.
- Work together with the student and Student Disability Services to ensure a successful learning
experience for the student.
Possible Academic Accommodations
-
Reduced course load
Priority/front row seating
Extended exam time
Extended time on lengthy assignments
Access to class notes/notetaker
Use of tape recorder for lectures
Distraction reduced test space
Seizure precautions if necessary
Resources
Brain Injury Association of America, 8201 Greensboro Drive, Suite 611, McLean, VA 22101, (800) 4446443, www.biausa.org
Brain Injury Association of Colorado, 4200 W. Conejos Place, #524, Denver, CO 80204, (303) 355-9969,
www.biacolorado.org
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1600 Clifton Road, Atlanta, GA 30333, (800) 311-3435,
www.cdc.gov
Centre for Neuro Skills (CNS), (800) 922-4994, www.neuroskills.com
This document is a compilation of resources from CCDI, CDC, NCPAD and UCI.