Introduction / Rationale: Mild traumatic brain injuries (mTBI) are prevalent in the military-population, especially amongst Paratroopers. Current assessments have shown low validity in capturing Soldiers’ readiness to return to duty (RTD).
Objectives: The aim of this program is to create a more military-focused and occupation-centered evaluation measure to utilize in determining ability to RTD post-TBI.
Methods / Approach: The developed evaluation, the Post-TBI Azimuth Check (P-TAC), is comprised of three components based upon common U.S. Army Tasks: Engagement Skills Trainer (EST) M4 carbine assault rifle (M4) weapons qualification to check reaction time and vestibular functioning; an Airborne Concept of Operations (CONOP) recall targeting working memory and executive functioning; and a M4 disassembly, reassembly, and function check to check memory recall. Pre/post assessments were collected at the initial evaluation, again during RTD test-out to evaluate how they performed each task, and a survey was given at completion to assess the perceived benefits of the components of the assessment.
Results / Practice Implications: Two cases are presented with results that show the feasibility and potential benefit of utilizing a WTBD and occupation focused RTD evaluation post-TBI in a military population. Further investigation and research are recommended to determine the validity and reliability of each task and to refine and modify the evaluation as needed.
Conclusion / Contribution to the occupational therapy profession: The intended impact of this report is to help improve understanding on occupational performance in relation to recovery post-TBI to ensure better quality of care to military personnel moving forward.