According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), a concussion is a type of brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works. A concussion is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Concussions can also occur from a fall or blow to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. Even what seems to be a mild bump can be serious.
Worcester Academy has established a protocol to provide education about head injuries and suspected concussions for coaches, school personnel, students and families. This protocol outlines education plans and procedures for staff to follow in managing concussions, and outlines school policy as it pertains to return to learn and to play issues following a concussion.
Worcester Academy institutes a gradual return to academics after being diagnosed with a concussion. The Health Office Staff along with Dean of Academic Success, the student’s advisor, and the teaching faculty will work together with the student to develop and implement a plan that gradually returns the student to full participation in academic activities.
Return to activity and play is a medical decision. The student must be asymptomatic at rest and with both cognitive and physical exertion. Once the above criteria are met, the student will be progressed back to full activity following a step-wise process. The athletic training staff will closely supervise this progression.