Research has made it clear that a concussion can have a significant impact on a student ’ s cognitive and physical abilities and that activities that require concentration can actually cause a student ’ s concussion symptoms to reappear or worsen . For this reason , students who are affected by a concussion must be guided by a physician through a “ return-to-school ” “ return-tosport ” and / or “ return-to-activity ” process .
The School recommends the Parachute App , which provides access to information on concussions , including a checklist to recognize symptoms .
Roles and Responsibilities
Students diagnosed with a concussion require a coordinated support response involving parents / guardians , the student , specific teachers / roles within the school , school administration and medical practitioners .
Parent
It is the responsibility of the parent to :
• Be aware of the signs and symptoms of a concussion and the serious nature of this brain injury
• Seek medical treatment immediately when advised , or should their daughter show signs or symptoms of a concussion
• Notify the School of any suspicion of your daughter experiencing or being diagnosed with a concussion in a timely manner , and provide the School with all required documentation including :
• physician diagnosis of a concussion ( Template : Medical Assessment )
• a follow-up note from a physician clearing a “ Stage 6 ” student to “ return to school ”, “ return to activity ” and / or “ return to sport ” ( Template : Medical Clearance )
• Take time to understand the recovery process from a “ return-to-School ”, “ return-to-activity ” and / or “ return-to-sport ” approach
• Have patience with the speed of recovery as it varies with the individual and must be allowed to run its course with medical guidance
Student
It is the responsibility of the student , in an age appropriate manner , to :
• Be aware of the signs and symptoms of a concussion and the serious nature of this brain injury
• Share her thoughts / feelings about the symptoms with an adult
• Be guided by her medical practitioner or parents / guardians to know when to “ return to learn ” and , if appropriate , when to “ return to sport ”
• Avoid rushing her recovery
Medical Practitioner
It is the responsibility of the healthcare professionals involved with the diagnosis to :
• Provide guidelines regarding an individualized plan for a student returning to school to help manage cognitive exertion following a concussion .
• Assist the School in understanding the capability of the concussed student in terms of the student ’ s physical , cognitive and emotional recovery .
School Administration
It is the responsibility of the school administrator to :
• Be made aware of all students with concussions
• Appoint a school-based case manager to ensure adequate communication and coordination of the team of individuals connected to the student diagnosed with a concussion
26 Crofton House School