Citation

Sye G, Sullivan SJ, McCrory P. Br. J. Sports Med. 2006; 40(12): 1003-1005.

Affiliation

Kennedy Road Physiotherapy, Napier, New Zealand.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, BMJ Publishing Group)

DOI

10.1136/bjsm.2005.020511

PMID

17124109

PMCID

PMC2577443

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To document high school players' understanding and attitudes towards concussion return to play guidelines. METHODS: A questionnaire based survey was performed of national high school rugby players as to their knowledge of existing concussion return to play guidelines. RESULTS: A total of 600 male players were surveyed, and 477 responded (response rate 80%). Half (237/477) were aware of concussion guidelines, and 60% (288/477) identified the mandated stand down period that is part of the regulations governing rugby football. Players obtained their information primarily from: teachers/coaches (239 responses), medical personnel (200), and other players (116). Of those players who suspected that they had been concussed (296/477, 62%), only 66 returned to play after medical clearance. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: This sample of high school players showed a limited knowledge of the concussion guidelines covering their sport, and even when concussed did not follow recommended protocols. This indicates the need for an increased focus on player education.

Language: en