Brain Injury Unit
| Telephone: | 02 9845 7941 |
| Fax: | 02 9635 8892 |
| Email: | info@biru.wsahs.nsw.gov.au |
| Location: | Westmead Hospital |
Introduction
The Westmead Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service (BIRS) was established in 1990 as a joint project of the Health Department and the Motor Accidents Authority. The service provides a range of rehabilitation options for people with traumatic brain injury, their families and friends. The BIRS does not provide a service to people who have brain impairment from developmental delay, stroke, tumours, substance abuse, or hypoxia.
Referrals
People with traumatic brain injury who reside in the Sydney West Area Health Service and the Wentworth Area Health Service can be referred to Westmead BIRS. A supra-regional responsibility is also taken for the west and north-west of NSW.
Pastoral Care
Pastoral Care is part of the holistic care provided in the BIRS. People in need are supported in their faith irrespective of their religion or denomination. Chaplains are always on call and can arrange a visit by specific ministers.
Clerical Services
A team of friendly administrative and clerical staff are available to help when you phone or call at the unit. They will direct your enquiry to the appropriate staff member.
These Services are Available
Inpatient Services
The 16 bed inpatient unit provides a full programme of therapy and medical services to people who are in the early stages after a brain injury or who need a short assessment period as an inpatient. An interdisciplinary team of professionals will work with the clients to maximise improvement.
Transitional Living Unit
This 4 bedroom house in Bridge Rd. Westmead allows clients to live in and resume household and community activities. Not everyone goes to the TLU but a programme may be offered as a transition from hospital to home again or as an assessment & training programme for people who had their injury some time ago.
Adult Outreach Team
The Outreach Team is a community team who assist with problems that arise after discharge from hospital. They provide case management rather than direct therapy and will refer on to appropriate services or advise on ways to make community reintegration easier. The Outreach team is involved in regular education sessions and community education initiatives. They produce a newsletter called "Lobeline" and encourage attendance at support groups in the local area.
Outpatient Services
The BIRS is able to provide some outpatient services: Neuropsychology, Clinical Psychology and specialised assessments. When clients require therapy after discharge they are referred to a local hospital for Outpatient therapy.
Outpatient Clinic
Medical outpatient clinics are held regularly at Westmead and Nepean Hospitals. Appointments are made through the BIRS.
Research Service
To further the mission of the BIRS, research is coordinated by a team expert in research methodologies.
Voluntary Services
The BIRS has a volunteer programme in conjunction with the Westmead Hospital Volunteer Service. Volunteers receive special training to work in the unit. They assist patients in day-to-day tasks and leisure activities as well as other helpful duties in the unit. People interested in being a volunteer should contact the Volunteer Services Co-ordinator of Westmead Hospital.
Patient Rights & Responsibilities
The BIRS supports clients in their right to be informed about treatment programme and encourages them to actively participate to achieve their rehabilitation goals. Clients are encouraged to raise concerns about any aspect of their programme with team members involved. The BIRS has information available to assist clients to resolve grievances.
Smoking
Smoking is prohibited inside the building. Visitors are also requested NOT to give cigarettes to patients under any circumstances. Please consult staff for assistance.
Main Foyer Services
The Hospital main foyer offers these services: Post Office, Westpac Bank and auto teller, Credit Union and auto teller, Florist, Voluntary Services Gift Shop, Coffee Shop, Fresh Fruit Shop, Newsagency and public telephones.
Facilities for Visitors to BIRS Main Centre
For patient safety in the main building it is necessary to keep the external doors closed. Access is either by security card or by the intercom and door release in the ward reception. Visitors are requested, when entering and leaving the building, to keep the doors open for a minimum time. If a patient is seen leaving the building visitors are requested to tell a staff member immediately.
Coffee and tea making facilities are available adjacent to the patient kitchen. Cold drinks and snack foods are available from the vending machines in the foyer.
A public telephone and visitor toilets are also located in the foyer.
The gymnasium and kitchen are to be used by patients only under the direct supervision of a staff member. Before entering the kitchen or patient treatment areas visitors must gain permission from staff.
Education
An Information Package has been written to meet the needs of the BIRS clients and their families.
The Westmead Brain Injury Rehabilitation Service
Westmead Hospital
Westmead NSW 2145
AUSTRALIA
Telephone: 02 9845 7941
Fax: 02 9635 8892
E-mail: info@biru.wsahs.nsw.gov.au
