What is a key aspect of assessing a patient who has previously sustained a brain injury?

Engaging with the patient and their family about normalcy is essential when assessing someone who has previously sustained a brain injury. This approach fosters a supportive environment, enabling the clinician to gather valuable insights into the patient's baseline functioning and any changes in their behavior or abilities since the injury. By discussing what is normal for the patient, healthcare providers can better understand the challenges the individual faces and how those challenges may affect their daily life.

This engagement also serves to enhance communication, build rapport, and assess the patient's cognitive and emotional state in the context of their everyday experiences. Family members can provide observational data regarding the patient's changes, which may not be readily apparent during a clinical exam. This aspect of assessment emphasizes the importance of the patient's perspective and the role of support systems in recovery and rehabilitation.