Concussion Safety Protocol

UNCG Concussion Safety Protocol

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Introduction

UNC Greensboro (UNCG) is committed to ensuring the health and safety of its Student Athletes (S-A).

To this end, and in accordance with NCAA legislation (Division I Constitution 3.2.4.18), UNCG has

adopted the following Concussion Safety Protocol for all S-As. This protocol establishes and/or

identifies: (1) a sport-related concussion definition; (2) independent medical care and concussion safety

protocol personnel; (3) preseason education; (4) pre-participation assessment; (5) recognition and

diagnosis of concussion; (6) concussion management; (7) return to activity, including both return-to-learn

and return-to-play; (8) reducing exposure to head trauma; and (9) written certificate of compliance signed

by the Athletics Health Care Administrator.

1. Concussion Definition

The 5th international conference on concussion in sport defines concussion as follows:

Sport-related concussion (SRC) is a traumatic brain injury induced by biomechanical forces. Several

common features that may be utilized to clinically define the nature of a concussion head injury include:

SRC may be caused either by a direct blow to the head, face, neck or elsewhere on the body with

an impulsive force transmitted to the head.

SRC typically results in the rapid onset of short-lived impairment of neurological function that

resolves spontaneously. However, in some cases, signs and symptoms evolve over a number of

minutes to hours.

SRC may result in neuropathological changes, but the acute clinical signs and symptoms largely

reflect a functional disturbance rather than a structural injury and, as such, no abnormality is seen

on standard structural neuroimaging studies.

SRC results in a range of clinical signs and symptoms that may or may not involve loss of

consciousness. Resolution of the clinical and cognitive features typically follows a sequential

course. However, in some cases symptoms may be prolonged.

The clinical signs and symptoms cannot be explained by drug, alcohol or medication use, other

injuries (such as cervical injuries, peripheral vestibular dysfunction, etc.) or other comorbidities

(e.g., psychological factors or coexisting medical conditions).

2. Independent Medical Care

As required by NCAA Independent Medical Care legislation, team physicians and athletic trainers shall have

unchallengeable autonomous authority to determine concussion management and return-to-activity decisions

for all S-As. Team physicians and Athletic Trainers will serve as the primary concussion safety protocol

personnel but may be assisted by a multidisciplinary team outline in section 7, “Return to Activity”. Further,

the Athletics Health Care Administrator shall ensure that the concussion safety protocol is available for, and

rehearsed by, all athletics personnel.

3. Preseason Education

All S-As and managers will complete the Concussion Sheet (Appendix A) with their preseason paperwork

which will be a signed acknowledgement that they have been provided, read and understood the concussion

education material. The Concussion Sheet will be kept on file in the S-A’s Medical Record. During pre-

season meetings, a member of the Athletic Training Staff will lead an educational session on concussions

where each S-A will also be provided a copy of the NCAA Sport Science Institute’s Concussion Safety, What

S-As Need to Know (Appendix B) and will sign the UNCG S-A Concussion Statement (Appendix C) to be

kept on file with the Athletics Health Care Administrator.

All coaches, team physicians, athletic trainers, sport oversight and the Director of Athletics will be provided

a copy of the NCAA Sport Science Institute’s Concussion Safety, What Coaches Need to Know (Appendix

D), be given access to an electronic copy of the UNCG Concussion Safety Protocol and will be asked to sign

the UNCG Intercollegiate Athletics Concussion Statement (Appendix E) to document their knowledge of

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current concussion protocols. The concussion statement will be kept on file with the Athletics Health Care

Administrator. A copy of the NCAA Sport Science Institute’s Concussion Safety, What Coaches Need to

Know and the UNCG Concussion Safety Protocol will also be sent to the Medical Director of the UNCG

Student Health Center to be circulated amongst their medical providers in the event a S-A is seen in their

office.

4. Pre-Participation Assessment

All S-As will complete a SCAT5 as part of their pre-participation baseline concussion assessment. All S-As

in Baseball, Basketball, Cheerleading, Soccer, Softball and Volleyball will complete an additional

neurocognitive assessment, ImPACT. Both pre-participation assessments include assessments for the

following:

Brain injury and concussion history.

Symptom evaluation.

Cognitive assessment.

Balance evaluation.

All S-As will go through new baseline testing every two (2) years. This will include both SCAT5 and

ImPACT testing. Additionally, any S-A who suffers a concussion should go through new baseline testing

prior to the next academic year. The team physician determines pre-participation clearance and any need for

additional consultation or testing.

5. Recognition and Diagnosis of Concussion

A member of the UNCG Athletic Training Staff with training in the diagnosis, treatment and initial

management of acute concussion will be present at all NCAA competitions in the following sports:

baseball; basketball; cross country; golf; soccer, softball; tennis; track; and volleyball.

NOTE: To be present means to be on site at the campus or arena of the competition. UNCG will

ensure that such personnel will be from UNCG, from the opposing team or will be contracted

independently for the event.

A member of the UNCG Athletic Training Staff with training in the diagnosis, treatment and initial

management of acute concussion will be available at all NCAA practices in the following sports:

baseball; basketball; cross country; golf; soccer, softball; tennis; track; and volleyball.

NOTE: To be available means that, at a minimum, medical personnel can be contacted at any time

during the practice via telephone, messaging, email or other immediate communication means.

Further, the case can be discussed through such communication, and immediate arrangements can

be made for the athlete to be evaluated.

Symptoms of concussion include, but are not limited to: (1) physical symptoms of headache, nausea, balance

problems, dizziness, visual difficulty, fatigue, sensitivity to light, sensitivity to noise, feeling "out of it" or

"foggy," vision changes, feeling dazed or stunned; (2) cognitive symptoms of feeling mentally foggy or

slowed down, difficulty concentrating, difficulty remembering, forgetfulness, confusion, feeling slow; (3)

emotional symptoms of irritability, sadness, nervousness, feeling more emotional; (4) sleep symptoms of

drowsiness, sleeping more or less than usual, difficulty falling asleep.

Visible signs of concussion include but are not limited to: lying motionless; unconsciousness; vomiting;

vacant look; slow to get up; balance difficulty or incoordination; clutching the head.

These clinical signs and symptoms, when not explained by drug, alcohol or medication use, other injuries

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(such as cervical injuries, peripheral vestibular dysfunction, etc) or other comorbidities (eg. psychological

factors or coexisting medical conditions) should be considered concussive in nature.

If an athlete, teammate, coach, official or member of medical staff identifies signs, symptoms or behaviors

consistent with concussion, the following will take place immediately:

The athlete must be removed from practice or competition.

o The S-A will be given a few minutes to catch his/her breath and lower his/her heart rate.

The S-A will be monitored during this time for any signs or symptoms of an impending

emergency which may include but not limited to persistent nausea/vomiting, focal

neurologic changes, declining level of consciousness, seizure, witnessed loss of

consciousness, etc.

The athlete must be evaluated by a member of the medical team with concussion experience.

o Every attempt should be made to complete clinical evaluations in a distraction-free

environment (locker room or medical office) rather than the sideline.

The athlete must be removed from practice/play for that calendar day if concussion is confirmed or

suspected.

o If the S-A has a witnessed loss of consciousness or has amnesia, then he/she should not

return to participation that day even if his/her other symptoms and exam are normal.

The initial concussion evaluation will include:

Symptom assessment. (This may include self-report, SCAT5, or the UNCG Concussion Symptom

Checklist (Appendix F))

Physical and neurological exam. (This may include observable signs and symptoms, Cranial Nerve

assessment, Coordination testing, SCAT5, Visual Ocular Motor Screen, etc.)

Cognitive assessment. (This may include Orientation, memory and concentration screening or the

SCAT 5)

Balance exam. (This may include the Modified BESS or BESS test)

Because a force sufficient to cause concussion can also cause cervical spine or other head trauma, the initial

concussion evaluation will also include assessment for cervical spine trauma, skull fracture and intracranial

bleed.

NOTE: There may be times when a modified concussion exam is used at the discretion of the team

physician or his/her designee due to sport rules and game situations. A full concussion evaluation will

be completed once the member of the medical team feels it is unsafe for the S-A to continue in sport

participation or has the clinical indication a concussion may be present.

6. Concussion Management

An emergency action plan will be in place for any suspected or diagnosed concussion. This plan includes

rehearsed arrangements for emergency medical transportation. The emergency action plan will be activated for

any of the following:

Glasgow Coma Scale < 13.

Prolonged loss of consciousness.

Focal neurological deficit suggesting intracranial trauma.

Repetitive emesis.

Persistently diminished/worsening mental status or other neurological signs/symptoms.

Spine injury.

Because concussion may evolve or manifest over time, for all suspected or diagnosed concussions, there will

be in place a mechanism for serial evaluation of the athlete.

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For all cases of diagnosed concussion, the athlete and another responsible adult will be provided oral and/or

written care regarding concussion management. Such instructions must be documented with a “UNCG

Concussion Information Sheet” (Appendix G) and instructed on strict cognitive and physical rest for the

remainder of the day. The warning signs of a complicated concussion are also reviewed with the athlete at

this time. It is advised the Athletic Trainer document that the S-A and chaperone (parent or

roommate/teammate who can monitor S-A for worsening symptoms) voice understanding of the information

included the above document, sign the form, and keep a copy for the medical file. The S-A should not be

left alone after the injury.

The AT will keep constant communication with a team physician to discuss each diagnosed concussion and

conduct serial follow-ups that should include the symptom checklist. Once the S-A self-reports he/she is

asymptomatic, the SCAT5 and post-traumatic neurocognitive test should be completed and compared to

baseline testing.

It is possible a S-A will become asymptomatic and have a normal/baseline SCAT5 on the day of injury or

within 24 hours post injury. Based on his/her sideline evaluation, he/she is still diagnosed with a concussion

while already returning to a baseline state. He/she must rest for the remainder of that day and cannot return to

any competition, physical activities or classroom activities until the following day at the earliest.

As most athletes with concussion have resolution of symptoms in 7-10 days, all athletes who have prolonged

recovery more than two weeks will be re-evaluated by a physician. Such re-evaluation will be performed to

confirm the concussion diagnosis, or to consider co-morbid or post-concussion diagnoses such as: sleep

dysfunction; migraine or other headache disorders; mood disorders such as anxiety and depression; ocular or

vestibular dysfunction; cervicalgia/neck pain; other post-concussion diagnoses.

Continued post-concussive symptoms, prior concussion history and any diagnostic testing results along with

neuropsychological testing and physical exam, will be utilized when establishing a timeline for a S-A’s

return to activity. It is important to note that this timeline could last over a period of days, weeks or months,

and may lead to a potential medical disqualification from UNCG athletics. All cases will be handled on a

case-by-case basis.

7. Return to Activity

Following a concussion, S-As will be given 24-48 hours of rest before gradually becoming more active. During

this rest period, S-As will be encouraged to be at both physical and cognitive rest. Activities that require

concentration and attention (scholastic work, video games, text messaging, watching television, observing

practice or games) may exacerbate symptoms and possibly delay recovery. S-As require a graduated program

of care following concussion, both for return-to-learn and return-to-play. Both will be considered carefully.

Return-to-Learn

Returning t o academic activities after a concussion is a parallel concept to returning to play after

concussion. After concussion, brain energy may not be available to perform normal cognitive exertion

and function. The return-to-learn concept should follow an individualized and step-wise process

overseen by a point person within the athletics department, who will work in conjunction with a

multidisciplinary team.

The UNCG multidisciplinary team may vary student-to-student, depending on the difficulty in

returning to a normal school schedule. Such team will include, but not necessarily be l imited to:

Team physician.

Athletic trainer.

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Intercollegiate Athletics Sport Psychologist

Counseling Center Psychologist/counselor

Neuropsychologist consultant.

Faculty athletics representative.

Academic counselor.

Course instructor(s).

College administrators (University and Athletics)

Office of Accessibility Resources and Services (OARS)

Coaches.

S-As who have suffered a concussion will not return to classroom on the same day. Following the first day of

rest. S-As should attempt a return to cognitive work. If the S-A cannot tolerate light cognitive activity,

he/she will immediately be referred to OARS to seek accommodations. OARS referral should be sent with

all injury information including but not limited to injury reports, symptom scales, Physician notes, and

results from post-traumatic testing. Depending on the S-A’s symptoms and his/her response to cognitive

activity, he/she may be prescribed an individualized plan to remain at home and gradually return to academic

work while these symptoms resolve. This plan will be compliant with both the ADAAA and Section 504 of

the Rehabilitation Act. If a S-A is referred to OARS, the following process will be used by the AT to assist

the S-A with academic concessions:

1) Email the completed “Faculty Information Sheet for Concussed S-A” (Appendix H) to the Faculty

Athletic Representative (FAR) (dlwyrick@uncg.edu), OARS (oars@uncg.edu), Dean of Students

Office (deanofstudentsoffice@uncg.edu), Assistant Athletic Director for Spartan Academic Support

Services (kristin.rusboldt@uncg.edu), Learning Specialist for Spartan Academic Support Services

(leallen2@uncg.edu), Senior Associate Athletic Director & Senior Women’s Administrator

(jody.smith@uncg.edu), Assistant Athletic Director for Health and Sports Performance

(jmmccloy@uncg.edu), head coach and the respective sport oversight(s).

2) The S-A will meet with an OARS staff member to discuss and determine appropriate academic

accommodations and draw up Faculty Accommodation Letters that the S-A can give to his/her

instructors or OARS will send to the instructors based on the severity of the S-A's condition. OARS

will be provided with the most recent evaluation, symptom checklist and SOAP notes to assist in

determining appropriate accommodations. The Assistant Athletic Director for Spartan Academic

Support Services should be copied on all e-mails from OARS.

3) Upon resolution of symptoms and/or improvement of objective evaluation scores, the AT will

contact all previously mentioned staff members to indicate that academic accommodations are no

longer necessary. The OARS will then communicate with the involved faculty.

**In addition to the potential accommodations to be considered listed below, the S-A will also be

excused from athletic study hall and mandatory team functions (observing practice, film sessions and

community service) to allow for additional cognitive rest during this time.

Optional list of accommodations to be considered based upon symptoms include, but are not limited to:

Excused class absences

Excused from physical activity

Rescheduled test/project date or due date

Additional time to complete assignments

Ability to make up missed course work

Additional time to complete test

Alternate test taking environment

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Alternate note taking

Limited exposure to electronic media

Other accommodations may be determined appropriate for the S-A reflective of their individual

circumstances. All academic accommodations will be made by a member of the OARS staff who will

continue to follow each case through the healing process. These accommodations may last up to two weeks

but, in rare cases, could last up to a month or longer. S-As with accommodations lasting more than two

weeks, will be re-evaluated by the team physician and OARS for continued accommodations. It is important

to note that each concussion will be different, and no two concussions are alike.

Return-to-Play

It is important to recognize each return-to-play plan will be individualized and supervised by a member

of the UNCG Athletic Training Staff with expertise in concussion management. Final determination of return-

to-play will be made by the UNCG physician or his/her qualified designee.

The initial treatment for all athletes following concussion is at least 1-2 days of physical and cognitive rest.

This rest period should continue until the S-A has been asymptomatic for 24 hours and has returned

to his/her pre-concussion baseline status, unless otherwise instructed by a team physician. Discretion

can be used by the health care provider to introduce mild aerobic activity during the transition per iod

of returning to pre-concussion baseline status, so long as such activity does not exacerbate post -

concussion symptoms or signs. All exercise and rehabilitation prescriptions will be at the discretion of the

treating physician.

Once the athlete has returned to his/her baseline status, a stepwise progression return -to-play

protocol will take place. Progression from one step in the protocol to the next can take place when

the stepwise activity does not lead to worsening or new symptoms. S-As must resume classroom

attendance prior to progressing past the light aerobic exercise phase of the RTP progression to determine if

symptoms return with increased cognitive function. The stepwise progression includes:

1. Light aerobic exercise such as walking, swimming or riding a stationary bike for at least

15 minutes. No resistance training is permitted. If asymptomatic with light aerobic

exercise, then;

2. Sport-specific activity (mode, duration and intensity specific) exercise with no head

impact. If asymptomatic with sport-specific activity, then;

3. Non-contact sport drills and resumption of progressive resistance training. If asymptomatic with

non-contact drills and resistance training, then;

4. Full-contact practice and unrestricted training. If asymptomatic with full-contact practice,

then;

5. Return-to-competition is allowed.

NOTE: It is commonplace for progression of each step to take at least 24 hours. If at any point the S-A

becomes symptomatic (more symptomatic than baseline), the team physician or physician designee

will be notified, and adjustments will be made to the return-to-play progression. The duration of this

additional rest will be decided on a case by case basis. Progression through the RTP will vary for each

individual. RTP should be considered only after a S-A is free of concussion symptoms at rest as well as

during and after exertion.

Retirement Guidelines

The decision to permanently retire from competitive sports due to concussions or concussion related

problems is a complex decision. Situations where this might be considered would include but not be limited

to: multiple lifetime concussions (particularly if there is evidence that smaller forces are sufficient to cause a

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concussion); prolonged recovery courses; diminished academic performance; evidence of a head or neck

lesion that would increase the risk of future concussion. This decision would be a team effort with input from

the S-A, family, AT, team physician, coaching staff and any other appropriate medical professionals deemed

necessary.

8. Reducing Exposure to Head Trauma

UNCG is committed to S-A health and safety. To that end, UNCG will be proactive in efforts to

minimize exposure to head trauma. The following procedures are in place:

Concussion Fact Sheets, plus education regarding safe play and proper technique, are made available

to S-As at the time of the p r e - s e a s o n annual health examination.

Concussion Fact Sheets, plus education regarding safe play and proper technique, are made available to

coaches, sport administrators, team physicians, athletic trainers and strength and conditioning

coaches on an annual basis.

Adherence to the Independent Medical Care Guidelines outlined but the NCAA

Coaching proper technique to all S-As, regardless of sport

Reducing gratuitous contact during practice.

Taking the head out of contact.

Teams will take a “safety-first” approach to sport.

Academic Year 2019-2020

UNC Greensboro

Concussion Management Plan

By signing and dating this form, you acknowledge, on behalf of your institution, that for the 2019-2020

academic year:

1. The Concussion Management Plan fulfills the requirements of NCAA Concussion Management

Legislation (Division I Constitution 3.2.4.18; Division II 3.3.4.16; Division III Constitution

3.2.4.16).

2. The Concussion Safety Protocol is consistent with Inter-Association Consensus: Diagnosis and

Management of Sport-Related Concussion Best Practices and also meets the requirements of

Division I Constitution 3.2.4.18.1.

Required Signature

Athletics Health Care Administrator

____ ______

Signature of Athletics Health Care Administrator

_______Jay McCloy__________________

Print or type Name

__________April 30, 2019_____________

Date

Optional Signature based on Institutional or

Conference Requirements

___________________________________

Signature

___________________________________

Print or type Name

___________________________________

Print or type Title

___________________________________

Date

Optional Signature based on Institutional or

Conference Requirements

___________________________________

Signature

___________________________________

Print or type Name

___________________________________

Print or type Title

___________________________________

Date

Appendix A

UNCG Concussion Sheet 2019-2020 Form

What is a concussion? A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. It follows a force to the head or body and leads to a change in brain function. It is not typically accompanied by loss of consciousness.

What is a concussion? A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury. It follows a force to the head or body and leads to a change in brain function. It is not typically accompanied by loss of consciousness.

How can I keep myself safe? 1. Know the symptoms. · You may experience … o Headache or head pressure o Nausea o Balance problems or dizziness o Double or blurry vision o Sensitivity to light or noise o Feeling sluggish, hazy or foggy o Confusion, concentration or memory problems 2. Speak up. · If you think you have a concussion, stop playing and talk to your coach, athletic trainer or team physician immediately. 3. Take time to recover. · Follow your team physician and athletic trainer’s directions during concussion recovery. If left unmanaged, there may be serious consequences. · Once you’ve recovered from a concussion, talk with your physician about the risks and benefits of continuing to participate in your sport.

How can I be a good teammate? 1. Know the symptoms. · You may notice that a teammate … o Appears dazed or stunned o Forgets an instruction o Is confused about an assignment or position o Is unsure of the game, score or opponent o Appears less coordinated o Answers questions slowly o Loses consciousness 2. Encourage teammates to be safe. · If you think one of your teammates has a concussion, tell your coach, athletic trainer or team physician immediately. · Help create a culture of safety by encouraging your teammates to report any concussion symptoms. 3. Support your injured teammates. · If one of your teammates has a concussion, let him or her know you and the team support playing it safe and following medical advice during recovery. · Being unable to practice or join team activities can be isolating. Make sure your

Appendix A

teammates know they’re not alone.

No two concussions are the same. New symptoms can appear hours or days after the initial impact. If you are unsure if you have a concussion, talk to your athletic trainer or team physician immediately.

What happens if I get a concussion and keep practicing or competing? · Due to brain vulnerability after a concussion, an athlete may be more likely to suffer another concussion while symptomatic from the first one. · In rare cases, repeat head trauma can result in brain swelling, permanent brain damage or even death. · Continuing to play after a concussion increases the chance of sustaining other injuries too, not just concussion. · Athletes with concussion have reduced concentration and slowed reaction time. This means that you won’t be performing at your best. · Athletes who delay reporting concussion take longer to recover fully. What are the long-term effects of a concussion? · We don’t fully understand the long-term effects of a concussion, but ongoing studies raise concerns. · Athletes who have had multiple concussions may have an increased risk of degenerative brain disease and cognitive and emotional difficulties later in life. What do I need to know about repetitive head impacts? · Repetitive head impacts mean that an individual has been exposed to repeated impact forces to the head. These forces may or may not meet the threshold of a concussion. · Research is ongoing but emerging data suggest that repetitive head impact also may be harmful and place a S-A at an increased risk of neurological complications later in life. Did you know? · NCAA rules require that team physicians and athletic trainers manage your concussion and injury recovery independent of coaching staff, or other non-medical, influence. · We’re learning more about concussion every day. To find out more about the largest concussion study ever conducted, which is being led by the NCAA and U.S. Department of Defense, visit ncaa.org/concussion.

CONCUSSION TIMELINE Baseline · Testing Balance, cognitive and neurological tests that help medical staff manage and diagnose a concussion. Concussion · If you show signs of a concussion, NCAA rules require that you be removed from play and medically evaluated. Recovery · Your school has a concussion management plan, and team physicians and athletic trainers are required to follow that plan during your recovery. Return to Learn · Return to school should be done in a step-by-step progression in which adjustments are made as needed to manage your symptoms. Return to Play

Appendix A

· Return to play only happens after you have returned to your pre-concussion baseline and you’ve gone through a step-by-step progression of increasing activity.

It’s better to miss one game than the whole season. When in doubt, get checked out. For more information and resources, visit: * <a target="_BLANK" title="NCAA Health-Safety" href="http://www.ncaa.org/health-safety"> NCAA Health-Safety</a> * <a target="_BLANK" title="CDC Concussion" href="http://www.cdc.gov/concussion"> CDC Concussion Page</a>

Reference to any commercial entity or product or service on this page should not be construed as an endorsement by the Government of the company or its products or services.

NCAA fact sheet for S-As

Please review the link to the NCAA Concussion Fact Sheet for Student Athletes. By

checking yes I certify that I have read the NCAA concussion sheet and understand the

information as presented.

NCAA Fact Sheet for Student Athletes https://www.ncaa.org/sites/default/files/2017SSI_ConcussionFactSheet_StudentAthletes_20170721.pdf

NCAA fact sheet for S-As

By signing below, I certify that I have read the NCAA concussion sheet and understand the information as presented.

UNCG S-A Concussion Statement

I understand that it is my responsibility to report all suspected injuries and illnesses to a member of the UNCG Sports Medicine Staff (i.e. certified athletic trainer or team physician).

I understand that it is my responsibility to report all suspected injuries and illnesses to a member of the UNCG Sports Medicine Staff (i.e. certified athletic trainer or team physician).

I have read, understand, and been given a copy of the NCAA Concussion Fact Sheet.

I have read, understand, and been given a copy of the NCAA Concussion Fact Sheet.

After reading the NCAA Concussion Fact Sheet, I am aware of the following

information:

A concussion is a brain injury.

A concussion can affect a person's ability to perform everyday activities and affect reaction time, balance, sleep, and classroom performance.

One cannot see a concussion. Symptoms may be felt immediately or may show up hours or days after the injury.

Following a concussion, the brain needs time to heal. An athlete is much more likely to have a repeat concussion if he/she returns to play before

Appendix A

his/her symptoms resolve.

In rare cases, repeat concussions can cause permanent brain damage, and even death.

If I suspect a teammate has a concussion, I will report these suspicions to my certified athletic trainer or team physician.

If I receive a blow to the head or body that results in known or suspected concussive like symptoms, I will inform my coach and certified athletic trainer or team physician that it may not be possible for me to return to play in a game or practice, until I have received medical clearance from a qualified professional.

I acknowledge that, if I am professionally diagnosed with a concussion, the UNCG Student Health Center, UNCG Office of Accessibility Resources and Services, and my professors may be notified by a member of the UNCG Athletic Department. This is done so that academic modifications may be considered to allow for cognitive rest.

Signed:

Appendix B

Appendix B

Appendix C

Student-Athlete Concussion Statement

_____ I understand that it is my responsibility to report all suspected injuries and illnesses to a

Initial member of the UNCG Sports Medicine staff (i.e. athletic trainer or team physician).

_____ I have read, understand and been given a copy of the NCAA Sport Science Institute’s Concussion

Initial Safety, What Student Athletes Need to know.

After reading the NCAA Sport Science Institute’s Concussion Safety, What Student Athletes Need to know,

I am aware of the following information:

_____ A concussion is a brain injury and I am aware of the signs and symptoms of a concussion.

Initial I also acknowledge a concussion is difficult to see and the signs and symptoms may not show up

for hours or days.

_____ A concussion can affect a person’s ability to perform everyday activities and affect

Initial reaction time, balance, sleep and classroom performance.

_____ Following a concussion, the brain needs time to heal. An athlete is much more likely to

Initial have a repeat concussion if he/she returns to play before the symptoms resolve.

_____ In rare cases, repeat concussions can cause permanent brain damage, even death. Initial

_____ The long-term effects of concussions are not fully understood and multiple concussions may

Initial lead to degenerative brain disease and cognitive/emotional difficulties later in life

_____ If I suspect a teammate has a concussion, I will be responsible for reporting these suspicions

Initial to my athletic trainer or team physician.

_____ NCAA rule require university medical staffs to manage your concussion independent of the

Initial coaching staff or other non-medical influence

_____ If I have received a blow to the head or body that results in known or suspected

Initial concussive-like symptoms, I will inform my coach and athletic trainer or team physician that it may

not be possible for me to return to play in a game or practice until I have received medical

clearance from a qualified professional.

_____ I acknowledge that, if I am professionally diagnosed with a concussion, the UNCG

Initial Student Health Center, UNCG Office of Accessibility Resources and Services, Dean of Students

Office and my professors may be notified by a member of the UNCG Athletic Department. This is

done so that academic modifications may be considered to allow for cognitive rest.

_______________________________________________________________________ Printed Name of Student-Athlete Signature of Student-Athlete Date

Appendix D

Appendix D

Appendix E

Intercollegiate Athletics Concussion Statement

_____ I understand that it is my responsibility to report all suspected injuries and illnesses to a

Initial member of the UNCG Sports Medicine staff (i.e. certified athletic trainer or team physician).

_____ I have read, understand, and been given a copy of the NCAA Sport Science Institute’s

Initial Concussion Safety, What Coaches Need to Know and the UNCG Concussion Management Policy

After reading the NCAA Sport Science Institute’s Concussion Safety, What Coaches Need to Know, I am

aware of the following information:

_____ A concussion is a brain injury and I am aware of the signs and symptoms of a concussion.

Initial I also acknowledge a concussion is difficult to see and the signs and symptoms may not show up

for hours or days.

_____ A concussion can affect a person’s ability to perform everyday activities and affect

Initial reaction time, balance, sleep and classroom performance.

_____ Following a concussion, the brain needs time to heal. An athlete is much more likely to

Initial have a repeat concussion if he/she returns to play before the symptoms resolve.

_____ In rare cases, repeat concussions can cause permanent brain damage, even death. Initial _____ The long-term effects of concussions are not fully understood and multiple concussions may

Initial lead to degenerative brain disease and cognitive/emotional difficulties later in life

_____ If I suspect a Student Athlete has a concussion, I will be responsible for reporting these

Initial suspicions to my athletic trainer or team physician.

_____ NCAA rules require university medical staffs to manage concussions independent of the

Initial coaching staff or other non-medical influence

_____ If an athlete has received a blow to the head or body that results in known or suspected

Initial concussion, I understand that it may not be possible for the athlete to return to play in a game or

practice until he/she has received medical clearance from a qualified professional.

_____ I understand that, if a Student-Athlete is diagnosed with a concussion, the UNCG

Initial Student Health Center, Office of Accessibility Resources and Services, Dean of Students Office

and their professors may be notified by a member of the athletic department. This is done so that

academic modifications may be considered to allow for cognitive rest.

________________________________________________________________________ Printed Name of ICA Staff Member Signature of ICA Staff Member Date

Appendix F

Name/Team:_________________________________________ Date of Injury:_______________

Please score yourself on the following symptoms, based on how you feel right now. “0” means you do not

have the symptom, “6” means the symptom is severe. A visual of the scale is listed below.

None Mild Moderate Severe

0 1 2 3 4 5 6

Date/Time

Headache

“Pressure in head”

Neck pain

Nausea or vomiting

Dizziness

Blurred vision

Balance problems

Sensitivity to light

Sensitivity to noise

Feeling slowed down

Feeling “in a fog”

“Don’t feel right”

Difficulty concentrating

Difficulty remembering

Fatigue or low energy

Confusion

Drowsiness

Trouble falling asleep

More emotional

Irritability

Sadness

Nervous or anxious

# of symptoms

Total score

% of normal

Appendix G

Concussion Information Sheet

You have suffered a head injury and must be watched closely by another person for 24 hours. This

could be a roommate, teammate or a parent. If you show any of the following symptoms or signs after your head injury, you or the person watching

you should call your athletic trainer and go to the Emergency Room: Your athletic trainer can be

reached at ___________________.

Any decrease in the level of consciousness Any increase in the severity of symptoms An increase in the number of symptoms Any weakness or numbness in the arms or legs Vomiting that will not stop or that starts several hours after your injury Abnormal respiration, pulse, blood pressure Cannot move parts of your body or face; vision or speech problems Seizure (any jerking of the body or limbs) Neck pain

You may use acetaminophen (Tylenol) for headache or other pain, but do NOT use ibuprofen, aspirin

or any other pain pills. You may wish to consume 2g-3g/day of DHA Omega 3 supplement capsules. You may use icepacks on your head and neck for comfort. Eat a light diet. Limit texting, watching television and using the computer.

It is ok to go to sleep and get a full night’s rest. There is no need to wake up every hour. Do not take part in any strenuous activity until cleared by your athletic trainer. Do not drink alcohol or eat/drink spicy foods or beverages. Call (336-334-5440) and make an appointment to visit the Office of Accessibility Resources and

Services during business hours (M-F 8:00am-5:00pm) on _______________.

See your Athletic Trainer ________________ at_________.

Appendix G

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Student-Athlete Printed Name Student-Athlete Signature Date

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Responsible Adult Printed Name Responsible adult signature Date

______________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Athletic Trainer Printed Name Athletic Trainer Signature Date

Appendix H

Faculty Information Sheet for Concussed Student-Athlete

Student-Athlete

Date of Injury

Date of Concussion Diagnosis

Faculty Athletic Representative

Treating Certified Athletic Trainer

Treating Physician

Please be advised that the UNCG Student-Athlete (S-A) identified above has sustained a

concussion while representing the university in athletic participation. This concussion has been

diagnosed by the physician and/or the Certified Athletic Trainer identified above. Please do not

hesitate to contact either individual if you have questions.

By signing this document, I hereby consent for the UNCG Department of Athletic Training to

discuss my current concussion and concussion history with the Office of Accessibility Resources

and Services (OARS), the Faculty Athletic Representative, the Dean of Students Office and my

academic professors.

Printed Name___________________________________ Date___________________________

Signature_______________________________________

Appendix H

What is a concussion? According to the new consensus statement on concussion in sport, a concussion is a traumatic brain injury

induced by biomechanical forces. Several common features that may be utilized in clinically defining the

nature of a concussive head injury include:

Concussion may be caused either by a direct blow to the head, face, neck or elsewhere on the

body with an impulsive force transmitted to the head.

Concussion typically results in the rapid onset of short-lived impairment of neurological function

that resolves spontaneously. However, in some cases, signs and symptoms evolve over a number

of minutes to hours.

Concussion may result in neuropathological changes, but acute clinical signs and symptoms

largely reflect a functional disturbance rather than a structural injury and, as such, no abnormality

is seen on standard structural neuroimaging studies.

Concussion results in a range of clinical signs and symptoms that may or may not involve loss of

consciousness. Resolution of the clinical and cognitive features typically follows a sequential

course. However, in some cases symptoms may be prolonged.

McCrory, P. et al. Consensus statement on concussion in sport: the 5th international conference on

concussion in sport in Berlin, October 2016. Br J Sports Med. 2017;0:1-10.

What are some signs and symptoms of a concussion?

A concussion can be very difficult to diagnose. Unlike most injuries, a concussion can present

with almost no physical signs. Often diagnosis is determined by symptoms only. UNCG

Department of Athletic Training staff members consider concussions to be very serious injuries.

Signs and symptoms of a concussion include but are not limited to:

Headache

Pressure in the head

Neck Pain

Nausea/Vomiting

Dizziness

Blurred Vision

Balance Problems

Sensitivity to light

Sensitivity to noise

Feeling slowed down

Feeling like in a fog

Don’t feel right

Difficulty concentrating

Difficulty remembering

Fatigue or low energy

Confusion

Drowsiness

Trouble falling asleep

More emotional

Irritability

Sadness

Nervous or anxious

Appendix H

**Please note that the S-A may only be experiencing some of these signs and symptoms.

UNCG Intercollegiate Athletics Concussion Management

Our concussion management plan is designed to not only protect the S-A on the field of play but

also in the classroom. Since many concussions cause cognitive disturbances, we not only take the

S-A out of competition, but also recommend modifying his/her classroom activity. As part of our

concussion management plan, concussed S-As will meet with OARS to discuss appropriate

academic accommodations. If OARS determines accommodations are warranted, a Faculty

Accommodation Letter will be created for the athlete’s professors. Once the S-A’s signs and

symptoms have returned to normal, an incremental return to learn/play progression will be

initiated. This allows the S-A to be successful in both the classroom and on the athletic field.

The goal of this management plan is to decrease the length of time signs and symptoms are present

and decrease the chance of further brain injury and long term consequences.

If you would like to read the entire concussion management policy, please contact the Assistant

Athletic Director for Health and Sports Performance within Intercollegiate Athletics, Jay McCloy

MS, LAT, ATC. He can be reached at jmmccloy@uncg.edu