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Back to the Books: Return to Learn Strategies for Concussed Student-Athletes: Summary
• Concussed students may be allowed to return while still symptomatic if they are able to tolerate blocks of instructional time; this decision may be made by a parent and family team in consultation with a physician; reassess weekly POSTINJURY MANAGEMENT • Ensure that the injured athlete receives an appropriate medical evaluation • Implement a gradual RTL program, allowing for in-school observation, monitoring, and necessary supports • Seek medical clearance for full return to school; the majority of students typically recover within the first three to four weeks COGNITIVE, SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL, AND BEHAVIORAL STRATEGIES FOR RTL ADJUSTMENTS Cognitive Strategies • Concentrate on general cognitive skills rather than academic content at first • Focus on the student's strengths and gradually expand curriculum as symptoms subside • Incorporate breaks in the school day to prevent cognitive fatigue • Tailor academic assignments and testing methods to align with the student's recovery pace and cognitive capabilities
• Adjust the learning environment to reduce distractions; consider extra time for assignments and tests and reduce auditory stimuli • Assign a peer for note-taking • Record classes for later review • Find diverse ways for students to demonstrate mastery beyond traditional testing Social-Emotional and Behavioral Strategies • Redirect the student to elements of the curriculum where they've experienced success • Provide positive reinforcement for academic achievements and acknowledge progress • Empathize with the student’s frustration and address emotional outbursts • Ensure structure and consistency among teachers implementing the RTL strategies • Remove students from problematic situations without characterizing it as punishment • Involve the student in decision making regarding their academic goals and schedule • Set reasonable expectations for the student’s academic progress
CASE STUDY 1: 10TH-GRADE FOOTBALL PLAYER
• Background : Sustained a concussion during football practice, multiple hits to the head. • Immediate actions : Reported symptoms to the athletic trainer, continued to participate as no concussion symptoms were felt, no loss of consciousness reported. • Symptoms : Difficulty sleeping, reading, and light sensitivity. Immediate dizziness after head contact. Headache, low energy, dizziness, and light sensitivity. Some improvement reported since initial presentation. • Management approach : Graduated, stepwise RTL process. Do not remove from all academic activities. • Adjustments : ○ For sensitivity to light : Reduce computer screen brightness, consider sunglasses or visors. ○ For low energy or fatigue : Supervised rest breaks, later start to school, shortened school day, alternate core curriculum classes.
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