A-08 Understanding the relationship between knowledge, beliefs, actions and confidence surrounding concussions among youth hockey coaches

Abstract

Abstract Purpose To investigate the effectiveness of mandatory concussion education among youth hockey coaches and to understand if increased knowledge correlates with confidence. Identification of facilitators and barriers to coaches’ beliefs and actions were also assessed. Methods Prospective, cross-sectional descriptive pilot study using an electronic survey via REDCap sent to youth coaches within the Minnesota Hockey organization. Quantitative questions were used to investigate knowledge and attitudes, while qualitative questions explored the facilitators and barriers to concussion management in youth hockey. Results 98.8% of the 177 participants (M=150; F=22, NB=5), aged 18–65+ years completed the mandatory concussion training, with majority completing it in the last year (79%). 95% endorsed concussion education as beneficial with only 8 coaches reporting it was not helpful and 10 coaches requesting more educational materials. Over half of the participants (96; 54%) denied legislation impacting their attitude toward concussion. Confidence in concussion knowledge (3.07±1.09; 77%) and attitudes towards concussions (7.62±1.63; 85%) were positive. 39 (26%) coaches considered athlete and parent input most valuable for return to play. This may be related 72% of participants who reported no trained medical staff were present at games or practices. Concerningly, 20% of coaches may not encourage an athlete with loss of consciousness to seek emergent care. Conclusions Current mandatory concussion education produces increased knowledge, confidence, and appropriate action among majority of youth coaches. Coach reliance on athlete and parent report for clearance to play increases with no medical staff present for practices and games, which could have negative consequences.