From the School Nurse 

Head bumps and Concussion

What is concussion?

This is a very broad question and determining the difference between a minor head bump and concussion can be quite difficult. Each student who experiences a head bump and presents to Sickbay is assessed using the CRT6 (Concussion Recognition Tool). It is important to clarify that this is not a diagnostic tool.

Concussion is defined as a traumatic brain injury caused by a direct blow to the head or body that causes a rotational force on the neck or a military blast.

A head bump/knock/injury is deemed a concussion if it causes biomedical or physiological changes and temporary change to an individual’s ability to function.

Symptoms

Symptoms of concussion include:

Dizziness                                          Memory difficulties                         Neck Pain

Difficulty concentrating                Motion sensitivity                           Nausea & vomiting

Balance problems                          Blurred vision                                   Sensitivity to light

Nervous or anxious                        Low energy                                       Irritability

Confusion                                         Sadness                                             Sensitivity to noise

Feelings of being “in a fog”

Diagnosis

Only a medical practitioner, sports physician or physiotherapist specialising in sports medicine should officially diagnose a concussion.

However, as more evidence becomes known about the seriousness of concussions and the long-term effects associated, it is reasonable to take a precautionary approach to head bumps.

“If in doubt, sit them out.”

Concussion Protocol

Once a student has been deemed to exhibit signs of concussion, a phone call will be made to parents and request to collect their child.

The concussion protocol involves:

24-48 hours of complete rest.

14 days of restricted activity focusing on strength and conditioning (i.e. exercise bike, weights etc..), strictly no participation in games, contact sports, or PE class activities putting the student at risk of another head knock.

A gradual return to sport through limited aerobic workouts, slowly introduce movement and non-contact drills.

Prior to any return to physical activities or PE classes the student requires medical clearance from a medical practitioner. The medical clearance form needs to be supplied to the School Nurse so it can be uploaded to the student’s file.

Students who experience concussion may also struggle in other classes besides PE. Different stimulation, lights, noises and other students may affect the student’s ability to concentrate or complete tasks in classes. It may be necessary to also delay assessments or exams within 21 days of the concussion. The student may find different subjects are harder than others (i.e. maths which requires greater concentration may be more difficult). These should be taken into consideration and a workable plan should be made between teacher, student and parents.

Prevention

Obviously, prevention is always the best motto.

Methods to prevent concussion include:

Wearing of protective gear in sport classes 

Neck strengthening training to help prevent rotational trauma

Good diet (Ketogenic diet is highly recommended in athletes recovering from concussion)

In some cases (depending on age of student) supplements may be recommended, like magnesium and fish oil.

Mount Ridley College

Our student’s wellbeing and health is extremely important.

Any head bump or knock will be communicated to parents/carers as soon as practicable after the incident.

If deemed a minor bump and assessed by the School Nurse or First Aid Officer as safe, the student can remain at school. But if there are any signs of concussion parent/carer will be requested to collect from school and if deemed necessary concussion protocol will be placed on student.

Further Information

www.rch.org.au/kidsinfo/fact_sheets/Head_injury-return_to_sport/