A Randomized Controlled Trial to Assess the Efficacy of Auditory Stimulation on Selected Parameters of Comatose Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

Problem Considered Prevention of sensory deprivation and early sensory stimulation are essential to enhance optimal recovery in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). This was an RCT to assess the efficacy of auditory stimulation on various physiologic parameters and level of consciousness in comatose patients of TBI.

Methods A total of 80 comatose patients with TBI were enrolled and 40 were assigned using computer-generated random table in each intervention and control group. In intervention group, auditory stimulation was provided by a family member talking to the patient for 10 minutes, twice daily for 2 weeks. Physiologic parameters such as heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, Spo ₂, and level of consciousness were recorded before, during and after each intervention. Parameters in the control group were recorded on days 1, 7, and 14.

Results Baseline characteristics in both the groups were comparable. On day 7, GCS was significantly higher (7.26 ± 2.39) in intervention group as compared with (5.54 ± 1.75) control group. On day 14, GCS was again significantly higher (8.17 ± 2.06) in intervention group as compared with (6.34 ± 2.36) control group. There was significant increase in PR and Spo ₂ during and after intervention.

Conclusion Auditory stimulation by family members appears to be effective in improving level of consciousness in comatose patients with TBI.

Keywords

traumatic brain injury - coma - auditory stimulation - communication - consciousness

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