1. HEADS UP Concussion in Youth Sports

2.  A traumatic brain injury which results in a temporary disruption of normal brain function  Occurs when the brain is violently rocked back and forth or twisted inside the skull as a result of a blow to the head or body

3.  Dazed, stunned or confused  Answers questions slowly  Moves clumsily  Behavior or personality changes  Memory loss  Loss of consciousness (less than 10%)

4.  Headache  Nausea  Balance problems  Dizziness  Double or fuzzy vision  Feeling sluggish or groggy  Concentration or memory problems  Confusion

5.  The athlete should be removed from play  The athlete must be evaluated by a health care professional (Physician, Physician Assistant, Osteopath, Athletic Trainer licensed by the VA Board of Medicine, Neuropsychologist licensed by the Board of Psychology, or a Nurse Practitioner licensed by the VA State Board of Nursing

6.  Parent or guardian will be informed by the ATC or coach  If a possible concussion occurs outside of sports, inform the athlete’s coach and ATC!

7. When an athlete needs immediate medical attention:  Any loss of consciousness  Decreasing levels of consciousness  Unable to be awakened  Breathing irregularity  Severe or worsening headache  Persistent vomiting  Seizures

8.  Rest!  Let teachers know at school-academics can be affected  Get plenty of sleep  Limit brain stimulation (computer, video games, texting, television ***No athlete should return to contact competitive sports until they are symptom free, both at rest and with exercise, and have normal neurocognitive testing.

9. Athletes sustaining a concussion will not be allowed to return to play until:  Cleared by a health care professional  All Symptoms are resolved with rest and exercise

10.  Most athletes recover in 1-2 weeks  Up to 10% of athletes have prolonged symptoms including headache, difficulty concentrating, poor memory and sleep problems  If return before healed athletes are at risk for: Repeat concussion Slower recovery Increased long term problems Severe swelling in the brain that can cause death

11.  Knowing and understanding signs/symptoms of a concussion through education  Early reporting of possible concussion to coach, parent, and/or athletic trainer  Practicing proper technique and form of sports specific skills needed in the specific sport

12.  Practicing good sportsmanship  Wear proper equipment Helmets properly fitted Mouth guards properly worn and fitted

13.  Baseline Testing-IMPACT Test computerized test used to assist in evaluation and treatment of head injuries; given to all athletes participating in contact sports before the start of their season No athlete can begin practice until test is performed!

14. If they sustain a suspected concussion, an athlete can re-take the test and the data can be shared with your physician to help in return to play decision making.  If head injury is suspected: If ATC is present they will complete the Sideline Assessment Form to be given to the parent

15. The Sideline Assessment Form can be used as information for the ER or physician. Athlete will take the IMPACT test and share results with their physician. The athlete will follow up with their physician to determine the return to play and the physician will complete the Follow Up Physician Form. Return all paperwork to ATC and follow up as needed.

16.  If an athlete is experiencing any signs or symptoms of a concussion, inform the coach or ATC!  Athletes cannot return to play without being cleared by a health care professional and being symptom free.

17. QUESTIONS? www.cdc.gov/concussioninyouthsports www.nfhs.org