Interviewed day-care center directors to determine injury rates. Found that injury rates were relatively low and that many of the injuries that occur in this setting are probably minor. Suggests that lowering height of playground equipment and providing more resilient playground surfaces could further reduce injury risks. (HTH)

The impact of detailed information on closed head injury (CHI) and Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) validity scales on malingering psychological symptoms of CHI on the MMPI-2 was studied in an analog experiment with 270 undergraduates. Results suggest the impact of such coaching on simulation of CHI. (SLD)

Clients (n=53) with orthopaedic and soft tissue injuries were assessed using Life Roles Inventory; Life Satisfaction Questionnaire; and measures of physical capacity, perceived exertion, and functional ability. Findings suggest that, although commitment to major life roles does not change following injury, levels of participation and role value…

A study compared police officers' physical fitness levels with workers' compensation (WC) claims. Officers who collected WC were predominantly female, younger, and lower ranking, with better physical fitness than officers not collecting WC. Officers in the second highest fitness level and older officers with greater cardiovascular fitness had…

Investigated self-reported psychosocial adjustment of young adults who received inpatient treatment for severe closed head injuries and were later discharged into the community. Findings from 47 former rehabilitation center patients revealed that 55 percent of subjects seemed to be mildly to severely depressed, based on self-reports. Participants'…

Supported employment was utilized in the vocational rehabilitation of two people with traumatic brain injury and one with a traumatic spinal cord injury. Supported employment was found to yield real work outcomes, though it required substantial amounts of money to return the three patients to relatively low-paying jobs. Funding issues are…

This article on young adults with brain damage in New South Wales (Australia) focuses on epidemiological considerations and implications for management. Jointly planning for provision of services for individuals who have either congenital or acquired brain damage is recommended, in view of their similar needs. (JDD)

Forty-eight British personal injury claimants received 12 months of assistance in using vocational rehabilitation services or 6 months' help after a 6-month deferment. There was no significant difference in number working at 6 months, but more were working at 12 months compared with 6 months. Interviews revealed that subjects were satisfied with…

Responds to case of head-injured former engineering college student who presented for career counseling following automobile accident, three months in coma, and four years of rehabilitation therapy. Discusses issues underlying provision of career counseling to individuals with brain injuries. Cites information needed for planning, explores major…

Responds to case of head-injured former engineering college student who presented for career counseling following automobile accident, three months in coma, and four years of rehabilitation therapy. Recommends vocational evaluation concentrating on a detailed work history, neuropsychological data, work samples, independent living skills…

Suggestions to help parents keep their children safe from injury include learn first aid; child-proof the home; use carseats and safety belts; lock up medications, toxic materials, sharp instruments, and guns; block off stairways; install smoke alarms; insist on bike helmets; and put safety plugs in electric sockets. (SM)

Reports results of a survey of large public libraries on incidents of muscular-skeletal injuries associated with use of computer keyboards in libraries. Personnel policies and practices that can minimize injuries are outlined. Sidebars describe the importance of adjustable workstations, steps that employees can take to minimize injuries, and…

Discusses management of common overuse disorders, which are often a result of repetitive stress. Reducing inflammation through icing, rest, and use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory agents is the primary treatment goal. Patients taking anti-inflammatories must be cautioned against returning to activity too soon because the medication's analgesic…

Surveyed chief student affairs officers (N=564) to determine effects of current safety standards and practices in college cheerleading. Found injury rate lower than six major team sports; no correlation between injuries and coach training; greater number of injuries when under supervision; and institutions with no cheerleading guidelines tended to…

Examination of case records of 731 residents (age 40 and over) in British hospitals for persons with mental handicap found that 55 males and 62 females had sustained 1 or more fractures. The resident's age, physical and mental states, causes of fractures, and bones involved were studied, as were additional diseases, disorders, or drugs associated…