A brain injury can cause complications that may require your brain injured employee to take medication, for example for the risk of seizures. It may also be prescribed to manage the consequences of the brain injury, for example for anxiety or depression.
Medication has its own side effects and may mean that an employee can’t carry out certain tasks, for example using heavy machinery. It is important that you understand what they are unable to do as a result of taking their medication and what the potential side effects are. This means you can offer a safe and supportive environment for them and other employees.
On their return to work, you are likely to have been advised about your brain injured employee’s medication needs if they’ve undergone an occupational health assessment. You must ensure that this information is kept confidential and not shared with others unless your employee agrees to this.
As their medication will change over time, you should encourage the employee to talk openly with you if anything new arises that may affect their work. If they have any concerns at all, you should suggest that they speak to their doctor about how it may affect their ability to work.