OSA Concussion Protocol
What are the signs and symptoms of a concussion?
Symptoms of a concussion range from mild to severe and can last for or appear within hours, days, weeks, or even months. In some cases there may be no symptoms at all. If you suspect a concussion, or notice any of the symptoms listed below, contact your doctor immediately. In severe cases, proceed to an Urgent Care Centre or Emergency Room immediately.
OSA Emergency Protocol – Suspected Player Concussion
A player showing any signs/symptoms as listed on the Pocket Concussion Recognition Tool or as listed in this document must be removed from play immediately. All Coaches/Trainers are required to be familiar with the use of this tool and follow the Club’s protocol without question. The player is not to re-enter the game or practice. A Match official may communicate their concerns with other team players, or technical staff.
o In the event of a loss of consciousness call 911 for assistance immediately. Do not move the player unless absolutely necessary for safety reasons.
o Ensure that a member of the team staff stays with the player. o Notify any family members immediately if they are present.
o The player must be evaluated by a physician prior to returning to play. Documentation from the physician is required. Average recovery period is 10 -14 days, but can sometimes longer.
o Graduated “Return to Play process” as per Zurich Concussion guidelines (2012).
o Coaches must complete required injury report and submit to OSC within 24 hrs of the incident.
OSA Return to Play Stages Protocol
This is a multi-part process that requires supervision from the player’s health care provider at each stage.
Any recurrence of symptoms requires the player to return to the previous level. OSC Coaches, Assistant Coaches, Managers and Trainers are not authorized to oversee Return to Play processes.
- Limited activity – Physical and cognitive rest
- Light aerobic exercise – Walking, swimming, cycling
- Sport specific exercise – Light running skills, no heading
- Non contact training drills – Passing / movement
- Full contact practice – Normal training cycle
- Return to play – Normal game play
Caution
The OSA is committed to providing a safe environment for all players regardless of age and gender. It is, however, ultimately the responsibility of the teammate, technical staff or parent to ensure that appropriate professional care is provided to players in the event of injury. In the event of a concussion diagnosis, premature return to play can result in serious and sometimes permanent injury, particularly in the event of a second impact. Parents should seek ongoing medical evaluation for the benefit of the player’s long term health and safety.
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