If you suspect an athlete and/or student has a concussion, implement the four - step action plan:

1. Remove from Play:

   • Immediately remove the athlete or student from play if they have experienced a bump or blow to the head or body.

   • Look for signs and symptoms of a concussion. When in doubt, err on the side of caution and keep the individual out of play.

2. Evaluation by Healthcare Professional:

   • Ensure that the athlete or student is evaluated by a healthcare professional experienced in concussion assessment. Do not attempt to judge the severity of the injury yourself.

   • Record essential information, such as:

     • Cause of the injury and force of the hit or blow to the head or body

     • Any loss of consciousness (passed out/knocked out) and if so, for how long

     • Any memory loss immediately following the injury

     • Any seizures immediately following the injury

     • Number of previous concussions (if any)

3. Inform Parents or Guardians:

   • Promptly inform the athlete's or student's parents or guardians about the suspected concussion.

   • Provide them with a concussion fact sheet to ensure they are well-informed about the situation and stress the importance of seeking evaluation from a healthcare professional experienced in concussions.

4. Keep Out of Play Until Cleared:

   • Ensure that the athlete or student remains out of play on the day of the injury.

   • Follow the guidance of the healthcare professional, and only allow the individual to return to play when they are symptom-free and the healthcare professional confirms it is safe.

   • Emphasize the critical importance of avoiding repeat concussions, as they can lead to prolonged recovery, increased risk of long-term problems, brain swelling, permanent damage, and, in rare cases, death.

Additional procedures regarding a concussion:

• Staff member and/or Coach fill out an accident report and notify the office in the event of a concussion.

• Parent notify the office in the event of concussion during and/or after school day.

• Take athlete and/or student to health care provider for evaluation and symptom management.

• Only a healthcare provide can clear an athlete and/or student to resume activity.

   

Baseline Testing - LCWM has implemented baseline concussion testing on a recommended  basis beginning with the 2012-13 school year. We are providing baseline concussion testing for all students in grades 7, 9 and 11 (parent permission required).   

Post Concussion testing will be administered by school personnel when requested and results will be made available for the parent and/or health care provider. 

Questions regarding Concussions should be referred to the School Nurse-Jessica Thormodsgard, Athletic Director-Doug Burns or Community Education Director Logan Manska 726-2323 ext. 1050.