Short-term test–retest reliability of the ImPACT in healthy young athletes

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe present study examined the short-term test-retest reliability of the Immediate Post-concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing (ImPACT) variables with healthy 11- to 14-year-old athletes. 53 young athletes (Mage = 12.4 years, 9 female) were administered the ImPACT on two separate occasions two weeks apart. Participants were instructed to complete the Post-Concussion Symptom Scale (PCSS) and the baseline computerized neurocognitive test during both the baseline and retest phases. Intraclass correlation (ICC), standard error of measurement (SEM), and reliable change index (RCI) were used as reliability metrics. PCSS Total Symptoms and Visual-Motor Speed were the only scores to reach clinical reliability standards (i.e., R > 0.7). None of the scores exceeded RCI cut-offs. Results indicate that the composite scores of the ImPACT are differentially reliable in a preadolescent sample across a two-week retest period, with only motor processing speed and self-reported symptoms exceeding clinical reliability standards. The findings support the view that neurocognitive testing should not be the sole determining factor in concussion assessment. This study highlights the importance of continuing research with younger athletes to assess the reliability of neurocognitive measures in concussion management programs. Future research should focus on a larger, heterogeneous sample, including children with learning disabilities and ADHD.