In the USA, more than 100,000 children visit the emergency room with a concussion every year. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Many more concussions will be ignored or go undiagnosed. Athletes are particularly likely to just try to “shake it off” when their “bell gets rung.”
Athletes in high school sports like football, basketball, rugby, hockey and soccer are particularly likely to sustain head trauma. But any student in a physical education environment can get whacked on the noggin.
Unfortunately, leaving a concussion undiagnosed and untreated can have dire consequences. Permanent brain injury and even death can be the result.
Download the Card
Here’s a card you can print out and carry in your wallet or medical kit. It will take you through some steps to follow if you suspect that a student has sustained a concussion. Once you reach the web page, click the “Ahead of the Game” logo to download the card.
http://www.dkneuro.com/2010/08/er-concussion/
In fact, the blog of Dean Karahalios, MD, a concussion expert, provides a lot of information on concussion and spinal injuries. It’s an excellent resource.
Dick Moss, Editor,
PE Update.com
To check out the PE Update.com website, Click Here!
To subscribe to the free Fun Stuff for PE Newsletter, Click Here!
[tags]concussions, head trauma, athletes and concussions, concussion[/tags]
