Introduction to the Career of Athletic Training

Athletic Training  Rendering of specialized care to those individuals involved in exercise and athletics.  It is recognized as an allied health career by the American Medical Association (AMA) in  Dates as far back as the treatment of gladiators in Rome Galen was a trainer and physician to the gladiators

Athletic Training cont.  As more people become involved in athletics the field will continue to grow  Certified Athletic Trainers are professionals who have worked to attain certification in the field of athletic training. Highly educated and skilled professionals who specialize in the prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation of injuries  Athletic Trainers are an integral part of the athletic health care team

Title IX  Federal legislation that prohibits discrimination of the basis of sex as to participation in athletics in schools receiving federal funds  Number of females participating in athletics has increased the demand of Athletic Trainers

Skills Required  Problem-solving ability  Good Judgment  Good decision-making skills  Proficient knowledge of anatomy, physiology, biology, and advanced first aid  Motor skills  Communication skills  Ability work well with people  Ability to work well under stressful conditions  Ability to maintain poise in emergencies

Education  Bachelor’s Degree in athletic training  The program must be accredited  Classes taken include Anatomy and physiology Biomechanics Exercise physiology Athletic training Nutrition Psychology  Must pass the BOC examination to become certified

Certification  Certification exam is administered through the BOC (Board of Certification)  Three part exam Written portion ○ Multiple choice Practical portion ○ Evaluates the skills of the athletic trainer Written simulation ○ Athletic training-related situations designed to approximate real-life decision making

Certification cont.  Six practice domains on exam Prevention Recognition, evaluation, and assessment Immediate care Treatment, rehabilitation, and reconditioning Organization and administration Professional development and responsibility  Once they pass they are able to use the designation ATC

Work Settings  Secondary schools  Colleges and universities  Clinics  Professional sports teams  Industrial settings

Responsibilities  Prevention, recognition, evaluation, treatment, and rehabilitation of athletic injuries  Taping and bandaging  Monitor rehabilitation programs  Use of modalities and training equipment  Recording, organizing, and storing information on injuries and rehabilitation  Compared to other professions, Athletic Trainers see the whole injury cycle

Hours  Athletic trainers typically work over a 40 hour work week especially in the secondary, collegiate, and professional levels Most work weeks are 60 to 70 hours Monday through Friday depending on the amount of games during the week

High SchoolCollegeProfessionalClinical Salary37,50047,00060,00048,500 Days/Week Hours/Week EveningsYes No Athletes/Day>30 <45<20

Professionalism  There is a national association called the National Athletic Trainer’s Association along with regional and state associations  Hippocratic Oath “I will use treatment to help the sick according to my ability and judgment, but I will never use it to injury or wrong them.” Liable: obligated according to law or equity Anyone who works outside his or her scope of practice and expertise can be found negligent and liable for his or her actions

Risk Management  Work within scope of practice of knowledge and expertise  Keep proper documentation and maintain accurate records  Follow proper training room rules and procedures  Always have adequate training room supervision  Keep in close contact with coaches, administration, and parents of athletes

Risk Management cont.  Inspect practice and game facilities  Establish a return – to – play protocol  Involve the team physician in all aspects of the program  Establish an advisory program with members of all involved parties  Establish and practice an emergency action plan

Smooth Professional – Athletic Trainer video  RHKTkBMk RHKTkBMk