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Policy 4: Concussion Protocol


Franklin Recreation Policy 4
December 16th, 2019

Policy 4: Concussion Protocol

The purpose of this document is to clearly outline the process for identifying, monitoring and managing athlete participation following a concussion. 

  1. Concussion Education
    1. All parents, gaurdians and athletes will be provided CDC guidelines and facts regarding concussions prior to all athletic programs.
    2. All coaches will complete annual CDC Heads Up Concussion training at https://headsup.cdc.gov/. 

  1. Concussion signs and symptoms
    1. It will be the responsibility of coaches, parents, guardians and athletes to recognize signs and symptoms of a concussion. 
      1. Symptoms reported by athlete: 
        1. Headache or pressure in head
        2. Nausea and vomiting
        3. Balance problems or dizziness
        4. Double or blurry vision
        5. Sensitivity to light and/or noise
        6. Feeling sluggish, hazy, foggy or groggy
        7. Concentration or memory problems
        8. Confusion
        9. Just “not feeling right” or is “feeling down”
      2. Signs observed by coaching staff
        1. Appears dazed or stunned
        2. Is confused about assignment or position
        3. Forgets an instruction
        4. Is unsure of game, score or opponent
        5. Moves clumsily
        6. Answers questions slowly
        7. Loses conciousness (even briefly)
        8. Shows mood, behavior, or personality changes
        9. Can’t recall events prior to the hit or fall

  2. Steps to take following a suspected concussion
    1. Remove the athlete from play and sit for the remainder of the event/activity. 
    2. Evaluate the athlete for immediate signs or symptoms of concussion and ensure the athlete is seen by a healthcare professional.
      1. In cases of suspected concussion, it is appropriate for a coach to require the athlete to be evaulated prior to returning to play. 
    3. Inform the athlete’s parents or guardians about the possible concussion 
      1. If the athlete is a student of the Franklin Central School, it will be the responsibility of the parent(s) or guardian(s) to notify the school nurse and/or Principal of the possible concussion.

    4. Return to play only after the athlete has been cleared. 
      1. Keep the athlete out of play the day of the injury and until they have been cleared by a healthcare professional. 
      2. Any athlete with a suspected or confirmed concussion, must have written clearance from a healthcare professional regarding if and when it is safe to return to play. 
      3. Documentation is to be provided to the athlete’s coach and then forwarded to Franklin Recreation Department. 




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