4 Back to the Books: Return to Learn Strategies for Concussed Student-Athletes: Summary 4
Accommodations • Extend beyond three weeks; may require a formal 504 plan (a customized guide with educational adjustments for cases where recovery extends beyond the expected timeframe) Modifications • Permanent changes to the educational plan; may require an individualized education plan (IEP) • Rare, as most students are expected to return to their full prior level of function;
communication is essential to ensure pro curriculum per management of the concussed student to avoid unnecessary disruptions to the learning • Examples include making major academic changes, altering the overall educational goals for the student The vast majority of concussed student- athletes will stay in the adjustment phase, while a few may move to accommodation. Making significant modifications to a student athlete's educational system should be extremely rare
Goals of RTL Plans 1. Avoid overexertion : Prevent activities that may exacerbate symptoms. This includes cognitive rest, which involves reducing the level of academic and cognitive challenges following a concussion. Using a concussed brain to learn may worsen concussion symptoms and prolong recovery. 2. Minimize disruptions : Aim to minimize disruptions to the student's life by reintegrating them into school efficiently and safely. 3. Quick return to school : Facilitate the return of the recovering student to school promptly, helping them reintegrate into their social circle and normal routine. 4. Protect the student-athlete : Ensure a gradual recovery of missed coursework to protect the student-athlete from undue stress and prevent symptom exacerbation.
• Conduct teacher and staff education and training sessions, emphasizing strategies for supporting students recovering from concussions • Develop a list of concussion resources for education, consultation, and referral DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR (PREINJURY) • Regularly review and reinforce concussion policies and procedures with staff and educators throughout the school year; RTL documents should be reviewed annually • Continuously monitor for potential injuries, both in practice and during school activities • In the event of an injury, promptly inform parents about the situation, guide them toward appropriate healthcare providers, and outline the plan for gradual return to school
Schools with concussion policies and procedures implemented prior to a student injury will be better prepared to manage sports-related emergencies. As athletic trainers and healthcare providers providing care to student-athletes, there are some things we can do before and during the school year to manage a successful RTL in the event of a concussion. PRE–SCHOOL YEAR PREPARATION • Develop clear concussion management policies and procedures, including plans for both RTL and return to physical activity • Establish a concussion resource team in advance, designating key partners and stakeholders to handle the protocol implementation
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