Recent scientific literature indicates that patients with disorders of consciousness (DoCs) after severe brain injury have potential for both cognitive and motor recovery if appropriate assessment and treatment strategies are incorporated into their care. This is particularly the case early after injury. However, over 40% of persons with DoCs reportedly are misdiagnosed as being unconsciousness when some level of consciousness remains, often due to a lack of standardized or individualized assessment implementation. Such errors can have a significant impact on continuation of rehabilitation and subsequent recovery potential. This presentation will 1) introduce the continuum of consciousness and associated disorders, 2) review predictors of functional outcomes for persons with severe brain injuries, and 3) highlight science-based interdisciplinary assessments and physical therapy interventions for patients with DoCs to maximize their level of functional recovery.

Upon completion of this webinar, the attendee will be able to:
1. Describe the continuum of disorders of consciousness (DoCs).
2. Summarize predictors of functional outcomes after severe brain injury.
3. Discuss the use of standardized tools in the assessment of persons with DoCs.
4. Identify and apply science-based intervention strategies to drive the recovery of consciousness and motor behavior.