An educational laminated card with information on the leading causes, cost and incidence rates of TBI, and its potential cognitive, physical and emotional consequences.
One of the two parietal lobes of the brain located behind the frontal lobe at the top of the
brain.
Perception
The ability to make sense of what one sees, hears, feels, tastes or smells. Perceptual losses
are often very subtle, and the patient and/or family may be unaware of them.
Perseveration
The inappropriate persistence of a response in a current task which may have been
appropriate for a former task. Perseverations may be verbal or motoric.
Persistent Vegetative State (PVS)
A long-standing condition in which the patient utters no words and does not follow
commands or make any response that is meaningful.
Phonation
The production of sound by means of vocal cord vibration.
Physiatrist
Pronounced Fizz ee at' rist. A physician who specializes in physical medicine and
rehabilitation. Some physiatrists are experts in neurologic rehabilitation, trained to diagnose and treat disabling conditions. The physiatrist examines the patient to assure that medical issues are addressed;
provides appropriate medical information to the patient, family members and members of the
treatment team. The physiatrist follows the patient closely throughout treatment and oversees the
patient's rehabilitation program.
Physical Therapist
The physical therapist evaluates components of movement, including: muscle strength,
muscle tone, posture, coordination, endurance, and general mobility. The physical therapist also evaluates
the potential for functional movement, such as ability to move in the bed, transfers and walking
and then proceeds to establish an individualized treatment program to help the patient achieve
functional independence.
Plasticity
The ability of cellular or tissue structures and their resultant function to be influenced by an
ongoing activity.
Plateau
A temporary or permanent leveling off in the recovery process.
