The Power of Cross-Disciplinary Teams for Developing First Responder Training in TBI

Authors

  • Jo L. Shackelford Western Kentucky University
  • Amy Cappiccie Western Kentucky University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18741/P9H59G

Keywords:

continuing education, cross-disciplinary, first responders, TBI, TBI symptoms, traumatic brain injury

Abstract

Misunderstanding of the symptoms of traumatic brain injury (TBI) often leaves first responders ill-equipped to handle encounters involving subjects with brain injury. This paper details a cross-disciplinary project to develop and disseminate a training curriculum designed to increase first responders’ knowledge of and skills with TBI survivors. The article aims to assist other professionals in understanding the process of working within a cross-disciplinary team to develop and disseminate a training curriculum. Lessons learned based on the development of such a curriculum for first responders working with persons with TBI will be valuable to training coordinators and serve as best practices for implementing similar training programs for specialized learner groups.

Author Biographies

Jo L. Shackelford, Western Kentucky University

Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Assistant Professor

Amy Cappiccie, Western Kentucky University

Social Work, Associate Professor

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Published

2016-05-26

Issue

Section

Reports of Practice