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Kids bump their heads; it's a fact of life akin to skinned knees and stubbed toes. The problem is skinned knees heal over whereas an undiagnosed concussion can be more serious for small children.
In response to an increase in child sports concussions the Children's Hospital at Westmead in Sydney has launched an awareness campaign on the signs and symptoms of concussion and what do to in the case of a suspected concussion.
As all early childhood education and care providers know, sport and play are an important part of the healthy growth and development of young children and they should be encouraged to participate. It is important however to be aware of concussion so that children may be given the best care when needed.
The Facts
A concussion is an injury to the brain caused by sudden strong movement of the brain against the skull. This is caused by a collision with another person or object.
- Sport related concussion rates in children have risen by 60% in the past decade.
- Every week six children are seen with a concussion at the hospital's Emergency Department.
- For every one concussion seen there are 15 or more children whose injury goes unrecognised or untreated.
- Only one in ten children with a concussion will lose consciousness so it is important to be on the lookout for warning signs which could appear immediately after a bump to the head or body, or over the following hours and days.
See the Facts Infographic for more facts on concussion in children.
Signs and Symptoms
If a concussion occurs or if you suspect a concussion during sport or play, the child should stop playing immediately and not return until cleared by a doctor. Recognising concussion and acting when it is suspected can prevent further injury and help with recovery. When in doubt, sit it out!
Signs and Symptoms Infographic
Two posters are available to help teach and learn some common signs and symptoms of concussion:
Concussion Poster
Concussion Signs and Symptoms Infographic Poster
How to Respond to Concussion
To learn about concussion, and how to recognise and respond to it, view these tools:
- Mild Head Injury and Concussion Factsheet
- Concussion Management On Field Tool - available as hard copy z card.
- Concussion Signs and Symptoms Checklist
Return to Activity- Information for Parents and Coaches
Children and young people should not participate in school or club sports or exercise until they are completely symptom free and cleared to do so by a doctor. Following a concussion a child's reaction times and thinking may be slower putting them at risk of further injury.
The following tools may be used to help ensure a safe return to activity following a concussion:
- Concussion Information Sheet for Coaches
- Return to Activity (RTA) Plan Following Concussion for Children and Young People
- Physical Activity Suggestions for Return to Activity (RTA) Plan
- Return to Activity (RTA) Letter
For further information, click here
References
Kid Safe NSW
SitOutConcussion.org.au |
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