Recognition Evaluation and Management of Injuries

Recognition, Evaluation, and Management of InjuriesObjectivesRecognize signs of life-threatening injuriesIdentify the protocol in first aid and emergency careUnderstand how to call 911Understand injury evaluation formatsUnderstand basic treatment protocolsDifferent types of splints

Recognition of InjuriesThe primary functions of an athletic trainer are to recognize when an injury has occurred, to determine its severity, and to apply proper evaluation procedures and treatment protocols.

Recognition is the process where the athletic trainer through observation or second hand theories determines the probable cause and mechanism of injuryGoal of Recognition of InjuriesControl life-threatening injuries

Management of non life-threatening injuriesWhat are Life-Threatening Injuries?Not breathingSevere BleedingSuspicion of cranial bleedingUnconsciousnessParalysisNeurological or Circulatory ImpairmentShockObvious deformityFracture or dislocationPain along vertebral columnSignificant swelling and painLoss of sensation and motionAirwayA

BreathingB

CirculationCEvaluation of Life Threatening InjuriesSecondary SurveyVaries athlete to athleteNormal rangePhysical activity causes varianceRespiratory Rate, Skin Temp, Skin Color, and Skin MoistureVital SignsAbnormal Nerve ResponseBlood PressureMovementPulseRespirationSkin Color State of ConsciousnessTemperature

Mechanism of InjuryOnset of SymptomsLocation of InjuryQuantity or quality of painType and location of painProgression of signs and symptomsCauses of increases and decreases in symptomsNauseaWeaknessDyspenea(shortness of breath)Evaluation of Non-Life Threatening Injuries

Evaluation of Non-Life Threatening InjuriesHistoryH

ObservationO

PalpationP

Special TestsS

HOPS Evaluation FormatThe purpose is to determine if a serious injury has occurred

Always expect a fracture

If a fracture is expected splint as is

The evaluation process determines the type of injury.

HistoryInvolves asking questions of the athlete to determine the mechanism of injury.Mechanism (How did it happen?)Location of pain (Where does it hurt?)Sensation experienced (Did you hear a pop or crack?)Previous Injury (Have you injured this before)ObservationThe athletic trainer should compare the uninvolved side to the involved side and look for bleeding, deformity, swelling, discoloration, scars, and other signs of trauma

COMPARE BI-LATERALLY!!!!PalpationThis is the first time you actually touch the athleteWork your way toward the injury sitePalpate the affected area (pin point pain)Neurological stability (motor and sensory)Circulatory Function (pulse and capillary refill)Anatomical structuresFracture Test (palpation, compression, distraction)Special TestsSpecial tests are a way to determine the integrity and functionality of the joint in question.Muscle Tendon StabilityDamage to Accessory StructuresInflammatory ConditionsRange of MotionPain or WeaknessEvaluation FormatAnother evaluation format that is similar to HOPS is SOAP.SubjectiveSObjectiveOAssessmentAPlanP

SubjectiveThis assessment requires detailed questions to be asked of the athlete.Previous Injury?How did it happen?When did it happen?What did you feel?Type of pain?Where does it hurt?Sounds or Noises?ObjectiveInvolves the physical and functional inspections.SwellingDeformityEcchymosisSymmetryGaitScarsFacial ExpressionsCirculation, Neurological, Active, ROMAssessmentReviews the probable causes and mechanism of the injury, impressions of the injury and treatment goalsPlanThis outlines the approach to the injury and the treatment goals.

Initial actions could include immediate action, referral, modalities, preventive techniques, rehabilitation goals, and criteria for return.Basic Treatment ProtocolProtectionPRestRIceICompressionCElevationESupportS