A paediatric neurorehabilitation model has been described as “effective in delivering quality” care and reducing length of stay by an ARC East Midlands study.
Researcher Rachel Keetley – Advanced Practitioner Children’s Physiotherapist at Nottingham University Hospitals NHS Trust where the study was conducted – evaluated the model in relation to improving quality of neurorehabilitation and reducing length of stay (LOS) for children with acquired brain injury.
This research which reviewed the service nicknamed 'BRILL' has been funded by ARC EM, the full title is‘BRILL (Brain Injury: Living Life): An evaluation of the impact and outcomes for children and families of an innovative neuro-rehabilitation service’.
A process evaluation approach was conducted in line with Medical Research Council evaluation of complex interventions guidance. Analysis was conducted on routinely collected patient data from 2017 to 2018, including LOS and family feedback. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for quantitative analysis and qualitative data was analysed thematically.
According to the paper, the results revealed: “Outcomes for 70 children (0–16y, median age 5y, IQR 1–11y, 46 males, 24 females) referred to the service indicated improved function and reduced complexity of need. The mean LOS was 10.6 days compared to baseline mean LOS of 41 days (2011–2012). High satisfaction from the families was recorded; however, ongoing needs and service gaps regarding long-term support were identified.
The paper concluded: “This service model is effective in delivering quality paediatric neurorehabilitation, demonstrating a sustained impact on LOS, and positive patient outcome data and family feedback for this group of patients.”
Rachel Keetley said: “the funding received to evaluate the service has been invaluable in helping us to be able to describe the service model, analyse patient outcomes, identify further areas for service development and share our findings and practice.”
Published on: 24 Mar 2021