Concussion Care
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury that is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body. This sudden movement causes the brain to move within the skull and creates chemical changes which can sometimes damage and stretch brain cells (CDC Heads Up).
Medical providers describe concussions as mild as they are typically not life threatening injuries. However, the effects of a concussion can be serious. When students report signs and symptoms of a concussion or are in a collision in which a concussion could have resulted they will be thoroughly evaluated by The Frederick Gunn School’s health providers who are trained in traumatic brain injury and concussion evaluations. These providers include the Health Center staff and the sports medicine staff along with The Frederick Gunn School’s medical director, Dr. Kristi Beck. If a student is diagnosed with a concussion their recovery will be closely followed by these medical professionals and all students will be required to complete a Return to Play Protocol prior to resuming their prior level of physical activity.
All of The Frederick Gunn’s Schools coaches, co-curricular leaders, sports medicine staff, and health department complete yearly educational training on the recognition of brain injuries such as concussions and The Frederick Gunn’s Schools health and safety policies and procedures.
Concussion Return to Play Protocol Per Connecticut State Law