2018-2019 Concussion Management

2018-2019 Concussion Management

Two New Safety Measures For Students Participating In Athletics

On April 1, 2013, the Board of Directors of the Urbandale Community School District approved two measures that will help ensure the safety of students participating in athletics at Urbandale Middle School and Urbandale High School. The two requirements below are in addition to the State Requirement that all students and parents annually read and sign the Concussion in High School Sports form.

1) Requirement for Physician Evaluation (grades 7-12)

Once a student has been evaluated by a licensed health care provider (to include a physician, physician’s assistant, chiropractor, advanced registered nurse practitioner, nurse, physical therapist, or licensed athletic trainer licensed by a board designated under section 147.13) trained in the evaluation and management of concussions and other brain injuries, and that student has been deemed to have suffered a concussion, that student may not return to action without having been evaluated by a physician. This in-person evaluation by a physician must occur after the time the student is removed from participation as having exhibited signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion or brain injury and before the student returns to participation. This applies to all students in grades 7-12.

 

2) Requirement for ImPACT Evaluation (grades 9-12)

All students that participate in athletics in grades 9-12 are required to take the baseline ImPACT evaluation prior to participation.

 

What is ImPACT?

ImPACT (Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) is the first, most-widely used, and most scientifically validated computerized concussion evaluation system. It was developed to provide useful information to assist qualified practitioners in making sound return-to-play decisions following concussions. ImPACT is a 20-minute test that has become a standard tool used in comprehensive clinical management of concussions for athletes.

 

Given the inherent complexities of concussion management, it is important to manage concussions on an individualized basis and to implement baseline testing and/or post-injury neurocognitive testing whenever possible. Neurocognitive assessment can help to objectively evaluate the concussed athlete's post-injury condition and track recovery for safe return to play, thus preventing the cumulative effects of concussion. In fact, neurocognitive testing has been called the "cornerstone" of proper concussion management by an international panel of sports medicine experts.

 

What interscholastic sports require ImPACT evaluation?

Once thought to be necessary for only football players, the need for an additional tool in concussion management is present in all interscholastic sports. All high school students participating in athletics, to include Cheerleading and Dance, will be tested prior to the season in which they participate (one test annually for students in multiple sports) by the Athletic Trainer and/or Activities Department Staff. The data collected will then be used in the event a student suffers a concussion to assist in the determination of return-to-play status. However, it should be noted that this test will only serve as one tool—not the only tool in determining the safe return of a student to participation.

How do I participate in ImPACT?

Baseline ImPACT evaluations will begin on July 10, 2017, and will continue throughout the school year; these evaluations will be coordinated through high school coaches. Any student wishing not to participate in this testing will be allowed to opt-out of the testing with the written approval of his/her parent. The individual parent may simply complete this form:  ImPACT Opt-Out Form

 

How can I find out more information about ImPACT evaluation?

To learn more about ImPACT, visit:  www.impacttest.com or call the Activities Office at (515) 457-6945.