Caring for Student-Athletes following a Concussion

The school nurse plays a dynamic role in the care and treatment of a concussed athlete. Concussions in the adolescent populations are of special concern due to their potential impact on mental development and cognitive function, as well as an increased risk of serious complications including second impact syndrome. The complexity of a concussion requires collaboration between of a variety of health care and school personnel to create an optimal situation for the student-athlete and their family. As the primary health care provider for students during the school day, school nurses can help ensure all necessary steps are taken to aid the recovery of an injured student-athlete. It is important that school nurses are up-to-date on current concussion information to allow for optimal care following injury and during the recovery process. (Contains 3 tables and 2 figures.)