Concussion Care

A concussion is a mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) that occurs from a direct blow or bump to the head. It can also result from a blow to another part of the body when the force travels to the head. A concussion can affect coordination, learning, memory, and emotions.

Students can utilize the Health Center for medical care after a concussion. Like any other injury, a brain injury should be given time to heal. Concussion management includes both physical and cognitive rest, otherwise the concussed student is at the risk of exacerbating symptoms and prolonging recovery or even causing permanent injury. The majority of injuries will recover spontaneously in several days.

The following guidelines for academic and co-curricular participation are suggested until full recovery:

• Students should not participate in unnecessary physical activity
• All unnecessary stimulation, including light and sound, should be minimized or eliminated if possible during the recovery period.
• Use of screens, such as computers and phones, should be limited to brief time periods that don’t increase symptoms.
• Mental rest is recommended for each concussed student. Attending class while suffering from concussion symptoms is likely to be detrimental not only to recovery, but also to academic performance.  This may include missing classes, deferring reading assignments and homework, and rescheduling tests for approximately 5-7 days post-concussion, although some cases may take longer to stabilize.
• When returning to class, the student should work with professors to obtain any and all available class materials.
• This is the form that the Health Center uses to evaluate concussions. If you choose to use an off-campus provider, we recommend that you take this form with you to your first appointment. 

If symptoms persist beyond 7 days post-concussion, students are encouraged to follow up with their medical provider.