As a practitioner committed to improving outcomes for children, it's essential to stay abreast of the latest research and technological advancements in concussion management. A recent study titled "A technology-enabled electronic incident report to document and facilitate management of sport concussion" highlights the benefits of using a mobile application to document and manage sport-related concussions among youth, high school, and college athletes. This blog explores how implementing such technology can enhance your practice and encourage further research.
Key Findings from the Research
The study, conducted by Linder et al., analyzed concussion incident report data from 46 high schools and colleges, involving 1421 athletes. The key findings include:
- Youth athletes had a higher probability of being sent to the emergency department despite the absence of red flags, indicating inadequate medical coverage at youth events.
- Over 60% of athletes were removed from play immediately post-injury, but 25% experienced delayed injury recognition due to delayed symptom reporting or onset.
- The electronic incident report (IR) facilitated interdisciplinary communication and improved the efficiency of managing athletes with concussions.
Benefits of Implementing Electronic Incident Reporting
Adopting an electronic incident reporting system can significantly enhance concussion management in several ways:
- Standardized Documentation: The IR module standardizes the documentation of injury severity, symptoms, and athlete disposition, reducing variability in care.
- Improved Communication: A secure, HIPAA-compliant platform ensures that all members of the interdisciplinary team have access to the same information, facilitating better coordination and continuity of care.
- Efficient Management: The systematic collection of injury-related data allows for quicker decision-making and more efficient management of concussive injuries.
- Educational Tool: The IR can be used to educate athletes, parents, and coaches about the importance of reporting symptoms and seeking timely medical attention.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to understand the long-term impact of using electronic incident reports in concussion management. Practitioners are encouraged to:
- Participate in studies that evaluate the effectiveness of electronic incident reporting systems.
- Collect and analyze data to identify trends and areas for improvement in concussion management.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop best practices and guidelines for concussion care.
By integrating technology into concussion management practices, we can improve outcomes for student-athletes and ensure they receive the care they need.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: A technology-enabled electronic incident report to document and facilitate management of sport concussion.
