CONCUSSION PROTOCOLS for INSURE GYMNASTICS MEMBER GYMS
1. Recognition
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Educate coaches, staff, and participants on signs and symptoms of concussions. Immediately remove individuals from activity if a concussion is suspected. Signs of a Concussion may include Dizziness, Confusion, Nausea , Sensitivity to light or noise and changes in behavior.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers:
Guide the injured person to a quiet and shaded area. Encourage them to sit or lie down, avoiding strenuous activities. Do not provide medication unless directed by medical professionals.
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Tools
For more indepth information take the - Heads Up to Youth Sports Course from the CDC at: https://www.train.org/cdctrain/course/1089818/details
2. Assessment
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Designate trained personnel for rapid assessment using a concussion evaluation tool. If concussion suspected, prohibit return to activities on the same day.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers
Do not directly assess the injury; call designated personnel. Provide emotional support and reassurance. Avoid giving food or drinks until cleared by medical professionals.
3. Medical Evaluation
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Encourage evaluation by healthcare professionals experienced in concussion management. Obtain medical clearance before resuming gymnastics activities.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers- Provide incident details to healthcare professionals. Assist in arranging transportation if needed. Communicate observed symptoms and assessments.
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Tools -Some other great resource are ImPACT Testing https://impacttest.com/ and
American Academy of Neurology guidelines https://www.aan.com/concussion/
4. Communication
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Promptly notify parents if participant is suspected of concussion. Maintain open communication with healthcare professionals.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers- Contact parents immediately with accurate information. Share relevant details with healthcare professionals. Communicate any requested information to medical authorities.
5. Return-to-Play Protocol:
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Gradual return under healthcare professional guidance. Ensure symptom-free before advancing activity level.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers- Follow healthcare professionals' guidance. Monitor for discomfort or symptom recurrence. Encourage open communication.
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Tools-More info for return-to-play guidelines. https://www.sportsmedres.org/?s=return+to+play
6. Support and Education
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Provide support and education to participants, parents, and coaching staff. Emphasize prompt symptom reporting.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers- Offer emotional support. Provide educational materials on concussion recovery. Emphasize symptom reporting.
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Tools -Create brochures using reputable sources such as AAP - Concussion in Children and Adolescents https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/126/3/597
7. Equipment and Environment
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Regularly inspect and maintain equipment. Minimize concussion risks in environment.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers- Regularly check equipment for safety. Advocate for well-padded surfaces.
8. Documentation
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Maintain thorough, confidential records. Use incident reports for trend analysis.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers- Implement electronic incident reporting system. Specify data to be recorded. Ensure secure storage.
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Tools- Implement electronic incident reporting system similar to Riddell Smarter Football - Incident Reporting - https://smarterfootball.riddell.com/incident-reporting.
9. Return-to-Learn
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Collaborate with academic institutions. Implement academic adjustments.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers- Collaborate with schools. Detail academic adjustment process. Monitor academic progress.
10. Education Campaign
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Conduct regular educational sessions. Promote awareness and responsibility.
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Actions for Coaches/Teachers- Develop engaging presentations. Encourage participation. Foster awareness and responsibility.