Concussion care
When in doubt, sit them out.
A concussion can happen without loss of consciousness. Remove the athlete from play, watch for warning signs, and get a qualified evaluation.
If you suspect a serious head or neck injury, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
What parents should watch for
Signs and symptoms
- Headache or pressure in the head
- Dizziness, balance problems, or blurred vision
- Confusion, slowed answers, or memory problems
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sensitivity to light or noise
- Mood, behavior, or sleep changes
- Worsening headache, repeated vomiting, seizure, increasing confusion, or unequal pupils require emergency care
Right after a hit
Stop play. Do not test it.
- 1
Remove the athlete from play and keep them out that day.
- 2
Do not leave them alone. Monitor symptoms and avoid another hit.
- 3
Arrange evaluation by a qualified licensed health care provider.
Our process
Evaluation to graduated return
We assess symptoms, neurologic function, balance, neck involvement, and school or activity tolerance. Once medically appropriate, the athlete advances through a graduated return-to-play progression. Each stage increases exertion; symptoms that return mean stopping and reassessing.
Washington’s Lystedt Law
Washington law requires a youth athlete suspected of concussion to be removed from play and not return until evaluated and given written clearance by a qualified licensed health care provider. Our medical providers can provide an appropriate clinical evaluation. This is general information, not legal advice.
A head injury should not be a guess.
Call the clinic or book online. We’ll help you choose the right next step.