Identifying the Gap: Factors Associated with Self-Reported Completion of Concussion Education in High School Athletes and Their Parent/ Guardian

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study aims to evaluate the completion of concussion education in a sample of Wisconsin high school student athletes and their parents/ guardians and identify factors associated with completion.BackgroundSport-related concussion is a significant public health concern. All 50 states have legislation mandating safety and prevention efforts aimed at reducing the burden of injury amongst the high school athlete population. Efforts include mandated concussion education for both athletes and their parents/ guardians. Previous studies have found that education leads to improved recognition of symptoms and improved outcomes. However, completion has not been formally assessed and factors that are associated with the completion are unknown.Design/MethodsSecondary analysis of cross-sectional survey data collected during fall of 2017. Data for pre-identified demographic factors (eg. race, ethnicity, student grade level, highest education, income level) were extracted and summarized using descriptive statistics. Only participants who provided responses to variables of interest were included in this analysis (n = 224 dyads of student athlete and their parent/ guardian). Chi Square test of significance assessed associations between factors and completion of concussion education. Analyses performed using SAS version 9.4.ResultsThe majority of student athletes self-identified as male (n = 123; 55.2%), white (n = 185; 87.7%) and non-hispanic (n = 192; 93.2%). Student athletes, who were older, in higher grade levels, had a history of concussion, and had parents/legal guardians with higher levels of education reported completing concussion education at higher proportions. Parents/ guardians reported completion of concussion education at higher proportions if they had a higher stated family income, their student athlete was in a higher grade level, and if their student athlete had a history of concussion.ConclusionsA number of factors are associated with higher self-reported completion of mandated concussion education, identifying a gap. Further investigation is necessary to ensure all student athletes and their parent/guardian are educated about concussion.