The Role of First Aid in Managing Sports-Related Concussions

Sports-related concussions and sports related head injuries are a common occurrence in athletic activities, and effective first aid plays a crucial role in managing these potentially serious injuries. MyCPR NOW recognizes the importance of understanding how to recognize and respond to concussions promptly and appropriately. This article explores the role of first aid in managing sports-related concussions, emphasizing the need for proper assessment, care, and the promotion of player safety.

Understanding Sports-Related Concussions and Head Injuries

1. Definition and Causes:

• What is a Concussion?: A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull, leading to brain dysfunction. It is a form of head injury that requires careful monitoring and management.

• Causes in Sports: Concussions in sports can occur from direct impacts (such as being hit by an object or another player), falls, or collisions with other players or objects. Sports with higher risks include football, hockey, soccer, rugby, and basketball. Even a mild head injury in these sports should be taken seriously and monitored closely.

2. Recognizing Symptoms:

• Immediate Symptoms: Headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, balance problems, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light or noise. Loss of consciousness may also occur but is not necessary for a concussion diagnosis.

• Delayed Symptoms: Symptoms can appear hours or days after the injury, including difficulties with concentration and memory, irritability, mood swings, and sleep disturbances.

The Impact of Concussions and Symptoms on Athletes

1. Short-Term Effects:

• Immediate Consequences: Cognitive impairment, difficulty concentrating, memory loss, and physical symptoms like headaches and dizziness. Athletes may also experience confusion and disorientation immediately following the impact. Recognizing a serious head injury is crucial, as symptoms such as confusion, bleeding, or severe pain necessitate urgent medical attention.

• Risk of Further Injury: Continuing to play with a concussion increases the risk of a more severe brain injury, including second impact syndrome, which can be fatal.

2. Long-Term Concerns:

• Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE): Repeated concussions can lead to CTE, a degenerative brain disease associated with memory loss, confusion, impaired judgment, aggression, depression, and progressive dementia.

• Cognitive and Emotional Impact: Long-term issues can include persistent headaches, memory problems, personality changes, and an increased risk of developing mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety.

First Aid Assessment and Treatment for Concussions

1. Immediate Response:

• Stop Play: Immediately remove the athlete from play to prevent further injury. Continuing to play increases the risk of a more severe brain injury. Even if the injury appears to be a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), it should be taken seriously and managed appropriately.

• Seek Help: Ensure the athlete is evaluated by a healthcare professional as soon as possible. Prompt medical evaluation is crucial for proper diagnosis and management.

2. Glasgow Coma Scale:

• Assessment Tool: The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) helps assess consciousness and neurological function by evaluating eye, verbal, and motor responses.

• Scoring: The GCS provides a score between 3 and 15, with lower scores indicating more severe brain injury. A score of 13-15 indicates mild brain injury (concussion), 9-12 indicates moderate injury, and 8 or below indicates severe injury. Recognizing a severe head injury and seeking immediate medical attention is critical to ensure the patient's safety.

Moving the Athlete with Severe Head Injury

1. Head and Neck Support:

• Stabilization: Support the head and neck to prevent further injury, especially if a spinal injury is suspected. If severe symptoms suggest a skull fracture, seek emergency care immediately. Use both hands to keep the head in a neutral position and avoid twisting or bending the spine.

• Avoid Movement: Do not move the athlete unnecessarily until professional help arrives. If movement is necessary (e.g., to move out of a dangerous area), use a spine board and ensure the head and neck remain stabilized.

2. On-Field Assessment:

• Evaluating Needs: Determine if emergency medical services are required based on the severity of the symptoms and the athlete’s condition. Look for signs of worsening symptoms, such as repeated vomiting, seizures, or loss of consciousness.

• Emergency Response: Call for emergency medical services if the athlete shows severe symptoms like loss of consciousness, repeated vomiting, worsening symptoms, or if there is any doubt about the severity of the injury.

Care and Monitoring

1. Rest and Recovery:

• Importance of Rest: Ensure the athlete gets adequate rest and avoids physical and cognitive activities that could worsen symptoms. Complete rest from sports, school, and other activities may be necessary initially.

• Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of symptoms and watch for any changes or worsening of the condition. Serious cases involving bleeding or brain damage require immediate hospital treatment. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider are essential.

2. Return-to-Play Protocol:

• Gradual Reintegration: Follow a structured return-to-play protocol that gradually increases activity levels under medical supervision. Each step should be monitored for symptoms before progressing to the next level.

• Clearance: Obtain medical clearance before the athlete returns to full sports participation. Ensure the athlete is symptom-free at rest and during exertion before returning to play.

Role of First Aid Providers

1. Sideline Personnel:

• Training: Coaches, trainers, and first aid providers should be trained to recognize and respond to concussions. Regular training sessions and updates on concussion management are crucial. Additionally, they should be knowledgeable about applying direct pressure to stop bleeding from superficial cuts, especially around the face and scalp, while avoiding it in cases of suspected skull fractures.

• Preparedness: Ensure that sideline personnel are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to handle concussions effectively. This includes having a concussion management plan in place.

2. Concussion Management Plan:

• Development: Sports organizations should have a comprehensive concussion management plan in place. The plan should outline procedures for identifying, managing, and returning athletes to play after a concussion.

• Implementation: Regularly review and practice the plan to ensure everyone knows their role during a concussion incident. The plan should include education on concussion symptoms, removal from play, medical evaluation, and follow-up care.

MyCPR NOW's Commitment to Concussion Education

1. First Aid Training:

• Course Offerings: MyCPR NOW offers first aid training that includes concussion management. The courses cover recognizing concussion symptoms, providing initial care, and understanding the importance of medical evaluation. Additionally, the training emphasizes the importance of recognizing head trauma and the appropriate first-aid steps to take in such events.

• Skill Development: Equip first aid providers with the knowledge and skills to handle concussions effectively. Hands-on practice and scenario-based training can enhance preparedness.

2. Promoting Player Safety:

• Advocacy: Advocate for proactive measures to prevent and manage concussions in sports. This includes promoting rule changes, proper technique, and enforcement of safety guidelines.

• Awareness Campaigns: Conduct campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of concussion education and safety. Educate athletes, parents, and coaches about the risks of concussions and the steps to take if one occurs.

Concussion Prevention

1. Education and Awareness:

• Raising Awareness: Educate athletes, parents, and coaches about the risks and symptoms of concussions. Provide resources and training sessions to increase awareness.

• Prevention Strategies: Promote strategies to reduce the risk of concussions, such as proper technique, adherence to rules, and encouraging a culture of safety. Not all head injuries are preventable, but taking these measures can help safeguard individuals, particularly children, from potential harm.

2. Protective Gear:

• Safety Equipment: Encourage the use of appropriate safety equipment, like helmets and mouthguards, which can help reduce the risk of head injuries.

• Proper Fit: Ensure that protective gear fits properly and is well-maintained. Regularly inspect and replace damaged or worn-out equipment.

First Aid in Different Sports

1. Concussion Risks:

• High-Risk Sports: Identify sports with a higher risk of concussions, such as football, hockey, soccer, rugby, and basketball. Many athletes in these sports suffer head injuries annually, highlighting the need for effective management protocols. Develop sport-specific concussion management protocols.

• Preparation: Prepare accordingly with specific protocols and training for managing concussions in these sports. Tailor education and prevention strategies to the specific risks of each sport.

2. Specific Considerations:

• Contact vs. Non-Contact Sports: Address concussion management differently for contact and non-contact sports, as the risks and impacts vary. In contact sports, emphasize proper technique and rule enforcement.

• Youth Sports: Pay special attention to concussion management in youth sports, as young athletes are more susceptible to long-term effects. Educate parents, coaches, and athletes about the importance of reporting symptoms and following medical advice.

Conclusion

The role of first aid in managing sports-related concussions underscores the significance of proper assessment and care in handling concussions during athletic activities. If you suspect a skull fracture, avoid applying direct pressure or removing debris, and cover the wound with a sterile dressing while seeking medical assistance. Recognizing concussion symptoms promptly and ensuring proper on-field assessment are critical steps in protecting the health of athletes. The immediate response of first aid providers, coaches, and trainers can significantly impact the well-being of athletes in the event of a concussion. MyCPR NOW is dedicated to providing first aid training that equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage concussions effectively. Promoting player safety through education, protective gear, and proactive management plans is essential in creating a safer sports environment. By taking the necessary steps to prevent and manage concussions, we can ensure the well-being of athletes and foster a culture of safety in sports.