A Standardized Concussion Management Protocol for Concordia College

Abstract

Sports-related concussion remains a diagnostic and management challenge for health care professionals. Numerous symptom scales and sideline assessment tools are available for team physicians and athletic trainers to objectively assess this difficult injury. Significant contributions of evidence-based research have led to a better understanding of this multifaceted but still often elusive injury. This information has transformed all aspects of concussion management, from on-field evaluation through return-to-play guidelines. A variety of approaches are currently available for the multi-dimensional management of sport-related concussion. Standardized protocols have been advocated by numerous consensus groups for the provision of uniform care and follow-up procedures for all concussive. The purpose of this paper was to review the literature of concussions, clarify why there is a need for a standardized concussion management protocol, and to develop a specific concussion protocol to be used by athletic trainers and athletic training students at Concordia College.