An abundance of research now clearly shows that people with a prior history of brain injury are more likely to experience problems later in life (beginning as early as one year later). These problems can include: substance misuse, mental health issues, domestic violence (either as the perpetrator or the victim), additional brain injuries, chronic pain, justice involvement, and more. Early identification and ongoing monitoring are, therefore, vitally important.
HELPS Brain Injury Screening Tool: The original HELPS TBI screening tool was developed by M. Picard, D. Scarisbrick, R. Paluck, 9/91, International Center for the Disabled, TBI-NET, U.S. Department of Education, Rehabilitation Services Administration, Grant #H128A00022. The Helps Tool was updated by project personnel to reflect recent recommendations by the CDC on the diagnosis of TBI.
H – Have you ever Hit your Head or been Hit on the Head?
E – Were you ever seen in the Emergency room, hospital, or by a doctor because of an injury to your head?
L – Did you ever Lose consciousness or experience a period of being dazed and confused because of an injury to your head?
P – Do you experience any of these Problems in your daily life since you hit your head?
S – Any significant Sicknesses?
Yearly screening: Recommend using the HELPS Brain Injury Screening Tool OR add questions to customize annual health history intake forms.
Example: Circle or provide checkboxes with a space for them to explain.
Ask: Has your child had an injury? Yes No
Cause of injury: Fall Car/motor vehicle accident Sports related Other
If yes: Did your child lose consciousness or become dazed? Yes No Not sure
Please explain: ________________________________________________