An OTA is working with a client who has recently had a TBI. The client is interested in driving once he is discharged; however, the OTA has noticed that the client is often inattentive during tasks. How should the OTA proceed with the client's wishes to drive?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Returning to driving after a traumatic brain injury requires a comprehensive evaluation that determines perceptual, cognitive, and motor deficits. Given that the client is inattentive during tasks, it is important to collaborate with the occupational therapist on assessments and recommendations concerning the potential to return to driving. The OTA may also work on attention in therapy, but this alone is not enough to determine the client's ability to drive safely. Redirection and behavioral interventions may be useful, but they do not address the underlying deficits that may make driving unsafe. Hiding the keys may be a temporary solution, but it does not address the client's desire to drive or the need for a comprehensive evaluation before making a decision about returning to driving.

An OTA Is Working with a Client Who Has Recently