Leaving on a Jet Plane: reflections on working with a patient with complex acquired brain injury secondary to attempted suicide.

Abstract

Objective: Despite indications that patients with Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) as a result of deliberate self-harm have more complex presentations and lower rehabilitation outcomes (Brenner, 2009)¹, there is nominal published literature that considers adjustments to care for these individuals. A multifaceted and emotionally triggering subject, laced with clinical and ethical considerations, the lack of published articles may indicate the complexities surrounding this topic.

Method: This case study reflects on the care of a young man on a specialist brain injury unit who had devastating physical and cognitive disabilities after a significant drug overdose. Because the patient was unable to make informed treatment choices, all medical care was delivered in the patient's best interest amidst questions and doubts about the value of continuing life-saving treatments and escalation plans.

Results: This article is not to defend or challenge the decisions made during this patient's care, but reflects on the complexity and impact of these situations on the patient, the family, and the care team. The patient's father gave permission for this case review publication.

Conclusion: Further investigation is needed to better understand the challenges faced by this population and to determine if bespoke pathways and therapy considerations are necessary to address these specific circumstances.