Polytrauma
More service members are surviving complex injuries than ever before due to more sophisticated armor and helmets, advances in battlefield medicine, and quicker evacuations. Polytrauma is defined as two or more injuries to physical or organ systems that result in physical, cognitive, psychological, or psychosocial impairments and functional disability. OTs plays a critical role in treating military personnel with polytrauma.
- They look at clients holistically and address physical as well as mental health issues as they usually come together. They must understand how each of the client’s injuries influence one another.
- OTs play a significant role in Warrior Transition Units, where soldiers are expected to heal as they transition back to duty or continual service as veterans in his or her community. OTs help soldiers to create realistic goals and transition back to a productive life.
- The VA has an assigned team to care for the polytrauma veterans. They get evaluated by a physician or psychiatrist and then moved to desired team members, which can include OTs.
- With polytrauma, services provided by OT vary widely depending on the complexity of the injuries. Goals are usually to maximize participation and be as independent as possible. OTs help the client develop realistic goals and treatment is individualized. They can address ADLs, IADLS, work, and leisure activities.
- Two out of every three service members with a combat-related amputation have at least one behavioral health condition. OTs address mental health along with physical injuries.