Schools in Missouri are Creating Policies for Concussions
A concussion is an injury to the brain that causes a temporary loss of normal brain function. Typically, a concussion is caused by an impact to the head.
Unfortunately, there may be no signs of injury to the head or loss of consciousness after a concussion. So to make sure all is clear before students return to the field in high school, the state had to get involved to create a policy that would make schools take a closer look when an athlete gets injured on the field.
The new state law instructs schools to take more precautions and keep more detailed records of concussions.
Keefe Tech, a Firmingham, Missouri high school, is doing just that. The school now requires their athletes to be checked out by a doctor and undergo more thorough testing after they have suffered a head injury. All of this will be before they’re cleared to play sports again.
The students and parents will also have to sign a form indicating they are familiar with the new requirements. The coaches will also be required to take an online course about concussions to educate themselves more about the signs and symptoms of a concussion.
The CDC has recently released a report that shows that concussions and TBIs (traumatic brain injuries) are on the rise. The rise in numbers could mostly be because young athletes play more aggresively nowadays, but it is suggested that it is also because the parents and coaches are more informed about concussions and know to see a doctor right away.
Kansas and Missouri are only two of 32 states that require athletic youth, parents and coaches to be educated about concussions so that they would know the signs and what to do.
Many concussions and other TBIs in youth in Kansas City are contributed to playing football, bicycling, and playing on playgrounds. If you or a loved one has suffered from a TBI, our Brain or Spinal Cord Injury or Child Injury lawyers at Kansas City Accident Injury Attorneys may be able to help. For more information, call 888-348-2616 or get your free copy of Ten Essential Steps You Must Take To Protect Your Injury Claim.
