Course Info (BOC Domains of Athletic Training; Presentation Description; Learning Objectives; Clinical Practice Gap Statement; Clinical Bottom Line)

BOC Domains of Athletic Training:

• Domain II - Assessment, Evaluation and Diagnosis
  

Presentation Description:

The presentation "How the Selection of Objective Measures Drives Time to 'Recovery': Improving Brain Injury RTP Decision Making at the Front End" by Dr. Len Lecci focuses on the critical role of objective measures in determining return-to-play (RTP) timelines for athletes recovering from concussions. Dr. Lecci presents comprehensive research showing how the choice of assessment tools significantly impacts RTP decisions. The session explores multiple domains that should be evaluated post-concussion, the scientific literature on RTP timelines, the importance of objective measures over self-reported symptoms, and the integration of this information in clinical practice to optimize patient outcomes.

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify multiple domains that should be assessed in post-concussion RTP evaluations.
2. Understand the scientific literature on RTP timelines by domain and measure.
3. Appraise the value of self-reported symptoms relative to objective, domain-specific measures.
4. Apply and integrate this information in the RTP decision.

Clinical Practice Gap Statement:

Despite the established protocols for managing concussions, there remains a gap in the effective selection and application of objective measures for RTP decisions. Current practices often rely heavily on self-reported symptoms, which can lead to premature or delayed RTP, thereby increasing the risk of long-term cognitive and physical consequences. This presentation addresses the need for healthcare professionals to adopt evidence-based, objective measures that span multiple domains, ensuring more accurate and safer RTP decisions.

Clinical Bottom Line Statement:

Effective RTP decision-making for concussed athletes requires the integration of reliable, objective measures across multiple domains. Research indicates that reliance solely on self-reported symptoms or commonly used tests like SCAT and Impact can result in premature RTP. Objective assessments, particularly those measuring cognitive and neuromotor functions, provide a more accurate indication of recovery and can significantly enhance patient outcomes.