Prince William County Public Schools in Virginia has updated its concussion protocol for student-athletes, moving away from the previous practice of having athletes remain inactive until they are symptom-free for 24 hours. The new policy, which goes into effect ahead of the fall sports season, allows for a more individualized approach to resuming activity after a concussion. The revised protocol emphasizes a gradual return to activity, with students transitioning back to academics and sports through a phased approach.
Ashley Ausborn, the school division’s coordinator of sports medicine, explained that the shift in protocol is based on evolving research that suggests some level of activity may be beneficial for injured individuals as they recover from a concussion. The updated policy focuses on keeping concussed athletes engaged in activities that are not stressful and do not exacerbate their symptoms.
Lauren Field, the athletic trainer at Osbourn Park High School, noted that the new policy is more individualized compared to the previous guidelines, which required a strict day-by-day approach to recovery. The updated protocol also considers students’ mental health and aims to provide support throughout the recovery process.
Under the revised policy, only students with histories of concussions and those with 504 and individualized education plans will undergo cognitive baseline testing. The goal is to support students in their return to the classroom and playing field while prioritizing their well-being and ensuring a smooth recovery process. For more information on the updated concussion policy, individuals can refer to the school district’s website.
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