Clinic byte: Concussions

As parents with a child involved in contact sports, it is heartbreaking to see your child being hit. What can we do to protect a student athlete? Let’s talk about concussions, for example.

Concussions are a type of brain injury caused by a blow, jolt or bump to the head or a hit to the body causing the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth resulting in damage or change in the normal function of the brain. Concussions impact the daily activity of the injured and will require some adjustments depending on the severity of the injury.

Sometimes there may not be any signs or symptoms at first, but symptoms may develop hours, days or weeks later - ranging from the athlete looking dazed, confused, not able to recall events or follow simple instructions, to vomiting, mood/personality/behavior changes, losing consciousness or having seizures. The athlete may report headache or pressure in the head, nausea, dizziness, light/noise sensitivity, vision problem or not feeling right. If there is any loss of consciousness, drowsiness, repeated vomiting, unequal pupils, change in behavior/personality or seizures, a visit to the emergency room is warranted and a return to school note from the doctoris also required specifying when the student may resume PE or sports.

The injury mechanism, with exhibiting signs and symptoms, are the basis of the diagnosis. To rule out a possible bleed in the brain, a CT scan may be done.

Time, physical and mental rest are the key to healing and recovery from a concussion. No electronic devices are to be used. A follow up with a Sports Medicine clinic is highly recommended.

Some of you have received calls from me or nurse Brandenburg informing you about a head injury at school and requesting a note from you to allow your child to participate in PE or sports.

As parents, to reduce the risk of injury, we can encourage our children always to follow safety rules, wear protective gear when applicable, and practice good sportsmanship. Also, it is important that parents inform teachers/coaches/school nurse about head injuries that occurred at home, especially if the child has more than one symptom. Students may stay in the clinic during PE or recess to rest; reading and use of electronic devices are not allowed during that time.

Until next time, may all students remain injury free and healthy!

Marie Confident, RN, BSN
Shorecrest School Nurse