Critical factors associated with the successful supported employment placement of patients with severe traumatic brain injury

A number of investigations have recently demonstrated the effectiveness of supported employment programmes in improving the vocational status of clients with traumatic brain injuries. The present study investigated a sample of 39 individuals participating in a return to work programme emphasizing a supported employment approach to identify key functional characteristics which differentiated successful and unsuccessful clients. Clinical ratings of employment specialists were used to identify two groups of individuals rated least and most difficult to place and maintain. Results indicated that the two groups differed markedly on key employment outcomes. Individuals rated most difficult tended to be younger, possess functional limitations such as visual and fine motor impairments, and display significant deficits in numerous work-related skills. Recommendations are made for applying these findings to assessment, placement, and training activities within vocational rehabilitation programmes for persons with traumatic brain injuries.