Concussion

Students who sustain a head injury while at school will be assessed for signs and symptoms of a concussion. The following signs may be observed by school staff or parents:

• Appears dazed or stunned
• Is confused about events
• Answers questions slowly
• Repeats questions
• Can’t recall events prior to the hit, bump, or fall
• Loses consciousness
• Shows behavior or personality changes
• Forgets class schedule or assignments

Students may report the following symptoms:

• Difficulty thinking clearly or concentrating
• Difficulty remembering
• Feeling sluggish, tired, fatigued
• Feeling hazy, foggy, or groggy
• Complaining of headache or “pressure” in head
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems or dizziness
• Blurry or double vision
• Sensitivity to light or noise
• Numbness of tingling
• Does not “feel right”
• Is emotional, irritable, nervous, or sad
• Feeling sleepy, drowsy, sleeps more than usual
• Having trouble falling asleep or sleeping less than usual

If staff suspects the child to have a concussion, or if any of the above signs/symptoms are present, the parent/guardian will be contacted and arrangements will be made for the student to go home. Medical follow-up may be advised.

* If a concussion is diagnosed by the physician, a letter from the physician with instructions for returning to school will need to be submitted. Students may have activity restrictions that teachers and staff will need to be aware of.