Athletic Training The ugly side of the job

Legal Issues Even though when an athlete chooses to participate in a sport and risks becoming injured or permanently disabled, the ATC may be subject to legal liability It is important for an ATC to understand certain legal terminology

Legal Jargon Negligence-failure to act as a reasonably prudent person would act in a similar situation –Ex. An ATC finds a huge hole on the field hockey field and instead of reporting it and making people aware of it, he/she does nothing. Gross negligence-a step beyond negligence. –Ex. Not giving an injured person instructions on what to do, even if it’s a simple injury.

More Legal Jargon Assumption of risk-when a person fully understands that by participating in sports he/she may be injured –Players must understand that they are assuming the risk of being injured by participating in a sport. Informed consent-permission by parents (after being informed of the possible dangers of being injured) for the medical staff to treat their child if he/she is injured

Last but not least… Proximate cause-the close connection between the way the ATC acted and the resulting injury to an athlete. –Ex. If an athlete has a neck injury and the ATC notices weakness and lack of movement in the neck area, but allows the athlete to continue to play, a more serious injury could result.

Avoiding Legal Problems Have a written contract –ATCs, coaches, and other pertinent personnel should have a detailed contract that provides a job description Use equipment that meets established safety standards Require preparticipation physical exams –Can help identify existing conditions that may lead to an injury

Avoiding Legal Problems Have all athletes and their parents/guardians sign an assumption of risk form Maintain CPR, AED, first aid certifications Have a crisis plan –Must have in writing for both home and away contests. Should explain all procedures that need to be carried out and everyone involved should have a copy and know their role. Document all injuries and procedures

Avoiding Legal Problems Maintain confidentiality –Required by law to keep medical information confidential Build trust Check for hazards –Periodically examine athletic fields and courts for hazards Stay educated

Preventing Injuries Reducing the risk of legal liability includes practicing comprehensive injury prevention. A comprehensive injury prevention program includes the following: Educating the athlete –Teaching athlete about the dangers involved with sports and the proper technique of his particular sport

Comprehensive Injury Prevention Program Rule enforcement –Teaching the athletes the rules to help prevent injuries Proper matching –Athletes should be matched by several factors including weight, age, and skill level Physical fitness –Being physically fit can help reduce one’s risk of injury