CONCUSSION TOOL - SUSPECT A CONCUSSION?

A concussion should be suspected in the presence of any one or more of the following:                        
1. Signs and Symptoms: 
• Headache or “pressure” in the head 
• Nausea or vomiting 
• Balance problems or dizziness            
• Double or blurry vision 
• Bothered by light or noise 
• Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy, or groggy       
• Difficulty paying attention 
• Memory problems 
• Confusion

2. Memory Function Test:                                                                                                                                  
Failure to answer all questions correctly may suggest a concussion:                                                          
• “What arena are we at today?”                                                                                                                
• “Are we playing an early game or a later game?”                                                                                        
• “Which team scored last in this game?”                                                                                                            
• “What team did you play last game?”                                                                                                        
• “Did your team win your last game?”                                                                                                      

ACTION PLAN: If you suspect a player has had a concussion you should take the following steps:        

1. Remove the player from play. Arrange for someone to be with the player at all times.                            

2. Encourage that the player be assessed urgently if any of the following are or become present:              
• Fractured skull or penetrating trauma 
• Seizure-like activity  
• Deterioration in consciousness                                                              
• Prolonged loss of consciousness for more than 1 minute  
• Vomiting                                                  
• Unequal pupils or dilated non-reactive pupils  
• Slurring of speech • Paralysis of limb(s)                     
• Inadequate post-injury supervision                                                                                                    

3. Inform the player’s contact person (See Registration Form in Team Binder) about the possible concussion and arrange to give them the Immediate Post-Concussion Instructions Sheet. Do not allow the player to drive or leave without adult accompaniment.                                                                              

4. Encourage the athlete’s contact person to talk to the family doctor or nurse practitioner immediately for assessment.                                                                                                                                                

5. Support a player’s return to play at a later date only when he has received clearance by a healthcare provider (i.e. physician and/or nurse practitioner)                                                                                

Important Phone Numbers:                                                                                                              PRHC Emergency: 705-743-2121                                                                                                        Local EMS: 911                                                                                                                                Telehealth Ontario: 1-866-797-0000