First Advisor

Parker, Carlo G.

Second Advisor

Dunemn, Kathleen N.

Degree Name

Doctor of Nursing Practice

Document Type

Capstone

Date Created

12-2017

Department

College of Natural and Health Sciences, Nursing, Nursing Student Work

Abstract

Sports-related concussions in adolescent athletes are a significant health concern. Evidence demonstrates that despite increased published literature on concussions, many providers are still practicing with outdated information that is not evidenced-based. This puts adolescent athletes at risk for potentially detrimental consequences such as second impact syndrome. This syndrome can result in devastating results such as collapse, death, permanent neurological damage, respiratory failure, and loss of consciousness. Since second-impact syndrome can result from a second injury before complete symptom resolution from the initial concussion, it is imperative for providers to ensure adequate recovery and prevent the athlete from returning to play prematurely. Furthermore, repetitive concussions over time have been linked to conditions such as depression, mild cognitive impairment, prolonged recovery from future concussions, and potentially chronic traumatic encephalopathy. The literature supported the creation of a concussion guideline and algorithm that would assist providers in caring for adolescents with a sports-related concussion. Therefore, this capstone project created a guideline and algorithm based on the literature and expert opinions gathered with the Delphi survey. The Stetler (2001) model provided the theoretical framework for the project. An educational in-service was developed for providers at the primary care clinic. The guideline along with the pathophysiology of concussions and negative consequences were presented and discussed. Anticipated outcomes included adherence to evidenced-based literature, standardized management of concussions, increased provider knowledge, and improved patient outcomes. Furthermore, anticipated long-term outcomes were decreased negative sequelae from concussions including reduced incidence of second-impact syndrome.

Keywords

Concussion, Adolescent athletes, Second-impact syndrome

Extent

201 pages

Local Identifiers

GreenwoodCapstone2017

Comments

Fall 2017 Graduate Dean's Citation for Outstanding Thesis, Dissertation, and Capstone

Rights Statement

Copyright is held by the author.

Digital Origin

Born digital

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