by the ISB Nurse’s Office
nurse@isb.ac.th
We want to take this time to prepare ISB staff and parents to recognize and respond to possible concussions. In addition, we are rolling out plans to promote awareness among student athletes to understand the serious nature of concussions and to report symptoms to a parent or coach.
What is a concussion?
A concussion is a mild form of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) that can occur on the playground, in PE, athletics, or any other activity. The cause of a concussion may be a direct or indirect blow to the head, face, neck or body that can change the way the brain normally works. It can also result from a fall or blow that results in the head and brain moving quickly back and forth.
Why is it important to promote concussion awareness and reporting?
According to the National Association of School Nurses, “recognition of a concussion and immediate assessment is critical in preventing further injury and for post-concussion management. Any force or blow to the head and/or symptoms of a concussion in a student or athlete should be immediately evaluated by either the school nurse or designated, trained school personnel.”
What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?
| Symptoms Reported by Athlete | Signs Observed by Coaches/Parents/Guardians |
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What is ISB doing to address concussion safety?
The Nurses’ Clinic is partnering with ISB Athletics and the Safety Committee to create and adopt a concussion policy and protocol. Our intent is to follow international guidelines from athletic medicine experts. The United States Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the International Olympic Committee, Sports Medicine Australia and many other organizations came together as part of the Fourth International Conference on Concussion in Sport. The Concussion Policy Consensus Statement recommends that schools and athletic organizations adopt a three-part concussion policy. This involves:
- Educate athletes, parents, and coaches to improve awareness and understanding of the possible adverse consequences of concussion
- Remove any player or student from play who is suspected of concussion
- Seek evaluation by a healthcare professional and sit out at least 24 hours, and in cases of loss of consciousness, a minimum of two weeks’ rest period should be administered.
What can parents do to promote concussion safety?
The CDC has developed the Heads Up campaign for concussion prevention and management, which includes online training, printed materials, videos and pocket guides for coaches, school staff, parents and teens. We recommend you review the Resources section below, discuss and share the information with your child and watch the Heads Up training video (approximately 45 minutes). All PE teachers and athletic coaches will be required to complete this training module.
ISB is committed to your child’s overall development, both educationally and health related. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact your healthcare provider or the ISB Nurse’s Office (nurse@isb.ac.th).
Resources:
Concussion: A Must Read for Young Athletes
Concussion Fact Sheet for Parents