EmergencyDefined as an unexpected serious occurrence that may cause injuries that require immediate medical attention

Time becomes a critical factor in an emergency, there is no room for indecision or error

• A mistake in the initial management of an injury can prolong the time for rehab and can potentially create a life-threatening situation for the athlete

Be properly equipped and trained for any medical crisis

Athletic injuries can occur at any timeSports medicine team must be prepared

Emergency plans help ensure the best care is provided Athletic organizations must develop an emergency plan

Should be customized to fit needs of your sports programShould specify needs within four

categories: Emergency personnel Emergency communication Emergency equipment Transportation

PERSONNEL PERSONNEL

Should outline emergency personnel roles

• Generally the first responder is a member of the athletic training staff

Athletic training staff is, at a minimum, trained in CPR and first aid

All members are responsible for knowing and being able to implement the emergency action plan

PERSONNEL PERSONNEL

Each member should be assigned specific roles

Immediate care should be done by the most qualified

Others should be assigned to locate and obtain emergency equipment

One member should be assigned to activate the emergency medical service (EMS) system

CommunicationGood working relationships ensure

the best careIt may be necessary for other

athletic department personnel to assist in some emergency situations

Hold practice sessions among sports medicine staff If possible, also with EMT’s

Staff must have access to a telephone or telecommunications device A backup plan should be in place in case the primary communications system is inoperable

Procedure should be in place for communicating the situation to EMS providers

All equipment that might be necessary for an emergency must be:Readily accessibleIn good working conditionChecked before each event or competition

EMS providers and an ambulance should be on standby at any event where there is a high risk of traumatic injury CMS has EMS at each Varsity football game Lessens response time for EMS Ensures injured athlete receives timely, proper

care

DEFINED MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

DEFINED MEDICAL EMERGENCIES

An injury that causes a threat to life or limb

• Breathing cessation, severe bleeding, no pulse, concussion with loss of consciousness, neck or spinal injury, fractures, dislocations, eye injuries, severe asthma attack, heat-related illness, or any injury causing signs of shock

Non-emergencies consist of all other injuries where life or limb is not threatened Abrasions, minor cuts, strains, sprains, minor

concussions without loss of consciousness, and contusions

Each athlete must have an up-to-date emergency information profile on record Nearest relative or guardian Medical information Hospital preference Family doctor’s phone numbers Parental permission to treat and transport

Emergency preparedness is the central element of a superior sports medicine program

The emergency preparedness team consists of everyone involved in athletics

The emergency plan must be documented and agreed upon by all parties

Being properly prepared is crucial

Primary SurveyDone immediately: determines the existence of a life-threatening injury or illness

Secondary Survey Gathers specific information from the athlete

about the injury Provides for a more detailed assessment Assesses symptoms and vital signs

MUSCULOSKELETAL VITAL SIGNS

HOPS History Observation Palpation Special Tests

ABC’s Blood Pressure Pulse Temperature

SKIN COLOR PUPILS

Flushed or Red Heat illness High blood pressureBluish

Airway obstruction Pale or Ashen

Shock, Hemorrhage, Circulation problems

Yellowish Liver

dysfunction(Jaundice)Airway obstruction

PEARLPupils equal and reactive to light

UnconsciousnessState of

insensibility in which the athlete exhibits a lack of conscious awareness

Unconscious athlete is always considered to have a life-threatening injury, and/or head, neck or spine injury

Guidelines Note body position

If prone, logroll for assessment

Determine level of consciousness and responsiveness

Establish ABC’s Monitor vitals

Guidelines for Football Remove facemask

for access to airway. DO NOT REMOVE THE HELMET