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Experiences/needs of US first responders, family caregivers, and children after TBI/catastrophic injury.

Patricia Kay Reyna, Laurie Ehlhardt Powell, Doug Gomez, Kayli Sol Reyna, Melissa McCart, Ann Glang

Disability and Rehabilitation · 2025-07-21 · Qualitative study

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Abstract

PURPOSE: First responders (law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency medical personnel) are at high risk for traumatic brain injury (TBI) and other catastrophic injury (CI) requiring long-term caregiver support. The aim of this pilot survey was to investigate, via caregiver perception, the lived experiences and needs of: (1) US first responders who experienced TBI/CI, (2) the caregivers themselves, and (3) children living in the home. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Caregiver participants (n = 27) completed an online survey including closed and open-ended questions. RESULTS: Results show first responders are living with adverse injury outcomes. Caregivers reported first responder suicidal ideation, suicide completion among their children, and a need for suicide risk support services. Four themes of most concern emerged. First responders are experiencing: (1) multiple challenges post injury (e.g., medical, benefits, vocational); (2) lack of support (e.g., state, departmental, peer, honor); (3) multiple adverse family impacts (e.g., relationship issues, family health); and (4) unmet/ongoing needs (e.g., education, alternative treatments, social support). CONCLUSIONS: The results provide critical data on US first responders with TBI/CI, their caregivers, and children. Study results can assist in the development of evidence-based supports and interventions to meet the needs of this understudied and underserved population.

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Tags

Clinician perspective · Next of kin · Fire service & police

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