Embedded Files
Due to the fact a concussion affects the brain which helps to regulate our everyday life, it also takes a tole in several different aspects of the athlete's life: School, socialization, athletic, family, mental, emotional, etc.
Management and treatment of concussions is where a strong support system is crucial and where parents and loved ones can help the most.
In the event an athlete sustains a concussion, the following steps are taken:
The Licensed Athletic Trainer (LAT) will notify the parent/guardian.
School administration will be informed to initiate academic accommodations if needed.
Primary Care Provider (PCP) should be contacted to document the injury.
If evaluated by a PCP, a medical clearance is required.
The athlete will complete a daily symptom score in the Athletic Training Room (ATR).
A follow-up SWAY test will be administered.
Once symptoms have decreased and the SWAY results have returned to at/near baseline, the athlete will begin a 5-day Return-to-Play (RTP) protocol.
SWAY results may be verified by a second LAT.
Athletes with prolonged symptoms (beyond 3 weeks) or non-linear recovery may be referred to a specialist in concussion management.
IT IS OKAY TO:
Take acetaminophen (Tylenol) for headaches
Eat a light, balanced diet
Return to school when the athlete can tolerate 30 minutes of mental activity
Use a heat pack on the head or neck for comfort
Rest and sleep — the brain heals best during sleep
Gradually resume normal activities as symptoms improve
THERE IS NO NEED TO:
Checking pupils with a flashlight
Waking the athlete every hour
Keeping the athlete in bed all day
Testing reflexes
Focus instead on rest, hydration, and avoiding symptom triggers.
DO NOT:
Activities that worsen symptoms (e.g., TV, video games, texting, reading, loud music, or homework).
Taking medications not approved by a physician, especially aspirin or NSAIDs (Advil, Aleve, Motrin)
Consuming excessive sugar, caffeine, or stimulants
Alcohol use
Driving
If any activity increases symptoms, it should be avoided.
Head Injury Evaluation – SCAT5 & SWAY
If a head injury occurs during a game or practice, the Licensed Athletic Trainer (LAT) will perform a SCAT5 assessment, which includes on-field and off-field components. The type of assessment depends on when and where the injury is reported.
The SCAT5 is a standardized concussion evaluation tool for athletes 13 and older, used by licensed healthcare professionals. It takes at least 10 minutes to complete thoroughly.
Athletes and parents/guardians will receive a copy of the SCAT5 results, including a symptom score and head injury care instructions.
The athlete will complete a SWAY baseline comparison test on the following school day. Results will be uploaded to the athlete’s Healthy Roster account for your documentation.
SCAT 5 Symptom Score
Page updated
Report abuse