| Description |
Concussions are a major public health concern. Despite increased concussion awareness and education, concussion occurrence continues to rise. The CDC reports that concussion cases have increased by 60 percent in the last 10 years. The purpose of this literature review is to identify current concussion educational practices in the clinical setting and determine whether increased education during well-child checks and pre-participation sports physicals using existing concussion guidelines and tools is warranted. Gaps in concussion education and knowledge transfer will also be reviewed. Inappropriate recognition and treatment following a brain injury can lead to detrimental neurological effects, such as post-concussive and second impact syndrome. Repeated injury can cause significant long-term effects and can even be fatal. Family nurse practitioners have a great opportunity to improve patient outcomes following a concussion, as well as prevent the occurrence of initial or recurrent concussions. Large knowledge deficits are present among parents, coaches, and athletes in the community regarding concussions and return-to-play guidelines. It is paramount that education to this specific population be enhanced in order to avoid complications from these injuries. Research included concussion pathophysiology, concussion recurrence, long-term complications, legislation and media, educative tools, gaps in knowledge, current practice guidelines, guideline adherence, and the nurse practitioner role in concussion treatment. |
