Disorders of Consciousness: Assessment, Therapy Treatment Interventions, and Evidence-based Practice 2569

Disorders of consciousness (DoCs), including coma, unresponsive wakefulness syndrome, and the minimally conscious state, represent some of the most complex and challenging conditions encountered in neurorehabilitation. These states, marked by varying degrees of impaired wakefulness and awareness, require precise diagnostic differentiation and tailored interventions to optimize recovery and prevent secondary complications.

This presentation will provide an in-depth review of the levels of DoC and introduce current evidence-based approaches to assessment and treatment. Particular emphasis will be placed on the JFK Coma Recovery Scale-Revised (CRS-R), the most widely recognized and validated tool for evaluating patients with DoCs. Attendees will gain practical insights into how to administer the CRS-R and interpret findings to inform clinical decision-making.

Additionally, the session will explore therapeutic interventions shown to support arousal and recovery, including multisensory stimulation, verticalization techniques, and right median nerve stimulation. These modalities will be examined within the context of an interdisciplinary rehabilitation model that addresses both the neurological and functional needs of this patient population.

Designed for clinicians across disciplines, this session aims to enhance participants’ ability to provide high-quality, evidence-informed care for individuals with DoCs. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the pathophysiology of consciousness disorders and practical strategies for improving patient outcomes in clinical practice.