POLICY:
Concussion and Head Injury
A. Washington State School for the Blind (WSSB) recognizes that concussions and head injuries are commonly reported injuries and children and adolescents who participate in sports and other recreational activities. WSSB acknowledges that the risk of catastrophic injuries or death is significant when a concussion or head injury is not properly evaluated and managed.
B. Therefore, all competitive sports and recreation activities at WSSB will be identified by the administration and all appropriate staff (e.g., coaches, fitness teacher, volunteer/recreation coordinator, volunteer coaches) will complete training as required in this policy’s procedure to recognize warning signs and symptoms of concussion and head injury. Additionally, all coaches will comply with Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA) guidelines for the management of concussions and head injuries.
C. Consistent with Washington law, WSSB will utilize guidelines developed within the WIAA and other pertinent information to inform and educate coaches, students, and their parent(s)/ guardian(s) of the nature and risk of concussions and head injuries, including the dangers associated with continuing to play after a concussion or head injury. Annually, WSSB will distribute a head injury and concussion information sheet to all parents/guardians of students participating in sports and recreation activities.
Sudden Cardiac Arrest
A. WSSB further recognizes that sudden cardiac arrest is reported to be the leading cause of death in young athletes. WSSB will work with the WIAA to make information on sudden cardiac arrest available to student athletes and their parent(s)/guardian(s).
B. WSSB will also work with the WIAA to make available an existing online sudden cardiac arrest prevention program for coaches. Every three (3) years, prior to coaching any sport or activity, all coaches will complete the online program.
C. Additionally, all coaches and appropriate staff will comply with WIAA’s guidelines for the management of sudden cardiac arrest.
Legal References: RCW 38A.600
Related Documents: Zachery Lystedt Law, Injury in Youth Sports Washington Interscholastic Activities Association (WIAA)