Brain injury care guidelines for first responders released

Over 50 experts—clinicians, researchers, policymakers, first responders and representatives from agencies that employ and advocate for them—have reached consensus on the first recommendations for the recognition, diagnosis and management of traumatic brain injury in first responders. Publishing today (Oct. 16, 2026) in The Journal of Head Trauma Rehabilitation, the 52 authors agreed to 28 recommendations designed to help first responders, health care professionals and agencies work toward five primary goals: timely recognition of traumatic brain injury (TBI), safe recovery, operational readiness, reduced stigma and first responder–centered care.

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