Administrative Issues and Documentation Paperwork, paperwork, and more paperwork

Why is this important? It is essential that the sports medicine team documents all procedures they perform in order to prevent lawsuits and for other reasons.

Preparticipation Exams Performed by a medical doctor to determine if an individual is able to participate in a sport without extra risk of injury. Used as a baseline for comparison if an injury does occur. Should include: height, weight, blood pressure, flexibility, joint stability, posture, ear, nose, throat, heart, lungs, abdomen

Medical Information Current medical information, along with medical history are also important for the ATC to know about. Good idea to keep a medical data information card in the medical kit for easy access during home and away events.

Insurance Issues Athlete must have some type of medical insurance before he/she is able to participate in organized sports. While the paperwork involved with insurance is horrendous, it is necessary because of the substantial cost of medical treatment

Reports and Charts Accident and Injury Reports –Should contain vital information including athlete’s name, date of injury, date of the report, athlete’s sport, age of athlete, and injured body part –See example injury report Treatment Logs –Any treatment an athlete receives must be documented Rehabilitation Charts –Once injured and assessed, a rehab program is designed and implemented. –ATC must document progress, along with exact treatment received, date received, and any notes (complaints, changes, etc)

Professional Development The ongoing responsibility of improving one’s skills and knowledge in order to deliver appropriate health care to injured athletes. An effective ATC will behave ethically, stay informed about the latest medical issues and trends, display good communication skills, and be an effective leader.

Staying Educated Required to complete 80 continuing education hours every three years. Can be obtained by attending workshops, college courses, maintaining CPR and first aid certification, etc.

Communication A person’s body language (eye contact, gestures, posture, etc) all send a message to other people. Make sure you’re sending the right message.

Leadership Integrity –Conducting oneself in an ethical manner Vision –Anticipating the needs of the athletes Inspiration –Persuade others that the vision you have is appropriate Competence –Having the knowledge and skills necessary to perform effectively