Concussion Management Protocol
St. Francis High School prides itself on meeting the needs of the whole student. With research mounting on the dangers of student-athlete concussions, St. Francis has decided to take a proactive approach in taking care of our athletes. We are in the process of implementing a software tool called ImPACT (Immediate Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing). This assessment proves to be safe, reliable, and valid.It enables many professional, collegiate, and high school sports programs across the country to successfully diagnose and mange concussions. If an athlete is believed to have suffered a head injury during competition, ImPACT assists in the determination of the severity of the head injury and when the injury has fully healed.;
The ImPACT concussion assessment has undergone stringent evaluations by various departments on campus. After thorough investigation, it has been decided to administer the computerized test to students in high risk sports. These teams include: volleyball, cheer, waterpolo, basketball, lacrosse, soccer, softball and diving. Each athlete receives a baseline assessment administered by a member of our Athletic department.; The baseline exam consists of a non-evasive test that is set-up in “video-game” type format and takes about 15-20 minutes to complete. It is simple, poses no risks to the student-athlete, and many athletes enjoy the challenge of taking the test. Essentially, the ImPACT test is a preseason physical of the brain. It tracks information such memory, reaction time, speed and concentration. However, it is not an IQ test.
In addition, if a concussion is suspected, the athlete will be required to re-take the exam. Both the preseason and post-injury test data is given to the athlete’s physician for evaluation. The assessment data assists the health professional to determine whether or not it is safe for the student-athlete to return to play. In compliance with our concussion protocol, it is necessary that the athlete is evaluated by a licensed health care provider and receives written clearance to return to play.
The St. Francis High School community is excited to implement this program. It provides us the best available information for managing concussions and preventing potential brain damage that can occur with multiple concussions. Our administration, coaching and athletic training staff strive to keep your daughters health and safety at the forefront of the student athlete experience. Please feel free to click on the link for further information about the testing procedures.