Concussion Education & Management

What is a concussion?
 

A concussion is a traumatic brain injury that interferes with normal brain function. An athlete does not have to lose consciousness (be “knocked out”) to have suffered a concussion.

Common symptoms of concussion include:

• headache
• fogginess
• difficulty concentrating
• easily confused
• slowed thought processes
• difficulty with memory
• nausea
• lack of energy, tiredness
• dizziness, poor balance
• blurred vision
• sensitivity to light and sounds
• mood changes – irritable, anxious, or tearful
• appears dazed or stunned
• confused about assignment
• forgets plays
• unsure of game, score, or opponent
• moves clumsily
• answers questions slowly
• loses consciousness
• shows behavior or personality changes

Concussion Management:

On-Field Evaluation Tools: The SCAT6 and Child-SCAT 6 (ages 12 and under) are standardized tools used by medical professionals and qualified health care professionals to aid in evaluating athletes suspected of having sustained a concussion.

Physician/Clinician Evaluation Forms: The Acute Concussion Evaluation Physician/Clinician Clearance Form is an assessment tool for concussed student-athletes. This form is to be completed by the treating physician/clinician upon return to school and other activities. This form should be given to your Athletic Trainer, school nurse, or school administrator.

Return-to-Play: Member schools should use the following guidelines to develop their return-to-play protocols for athletes returning to sport post-concussion diagnosis. 

Return-to-Learn: Member schools are recommended to have a return to learn policy instituted.