Concussion education and awareness support group: the value of a pilot clinical program as an essential Knowledge Transfer and Exchange (KTE) strategy. Issue 5 (11th March 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Provvidenza, Christine; Kissick, James; Purcell, Laura; Johnston, Karen
• Is Part Of: British journal of sports medicine. Volume 47:Issue 5(2013)
• Page Start: e1
• Page End: e1
• Publication Date: 2013-03-11
• Subjects: Sports medicine -- Periodicals; 617.1027
• DOI: 10.1136/bjsports-2012-092101.3
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0306-3674

Abstract

Abstract : Objective: To pilot test a concussion education and support workshop as a Knowledge Transfer and Exchange (KTE) intervention for enhancing knowledge and education post-concussion. Design: Prospective, pre-post design to pilot test a KTE intervention. Setting: Sport Concussion Clinic patients and their parents. Subjects: Five concussed athletes (4 males; 1 female) ages 10–39 years (mean=29±10 years) and their parents (N=4). Intervention: An education presentation based on 2008 Concussion in Sport Meeting content (Zurich, Switzerland) consisting of case studies, discussion questions and a workbook. Outcome Measures: A survey was designed to examine baseline and changes in concussion knowledge and attitudes, and was administered pre and post intervention. A workshop evaluation assessed preferred learning methods and workshop satisfaction. Results: Knowledge improvements regarding the return-to-play protocol (RTP; 22%), when to RTP (11%) and start rehabilitation (45%) were seen. Knowledge gaps were associated with the role of CT/MRI and protective equipment. Athletes acknowledged the seriousness of concussion and felt relief that they were not alone. The workshop was considered a successful form of peer support for the athletes and overall support for the parents. Conclusions: This intervention is a potentially effective KTE strategy for optimising concussion knowledge and education post-injury, and providing support throughout the concussion recovery process. Participants indicated they wanted to learn more about recovery techniques and coping, and would like to receive information electronically. The limited sample size reinforces the need to continue examining the role of such workshops using a larger group design. Establishing online peer support and education workshops in a webinar format would be an appropriate next step. Acknowledgements: Alternative Funding Program Innovation Funds, Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care. Competing interests: None.