ImPACT Screening
Pediatrics at Livingston HealthCare
Every year, 300,000 people have a sports-related concussion. It's estimated
that nearly 20% of athletes playing contact sports may experience a concussion.
Although the majority of student-athletes who experience a concussion
make a full recovery, there are some who may experience chronic difficulties
related to recurring head injuries.
The best way to prevent permanent damage from a concussion is to identify
the injury when it happens so that the athlete can have adequate time
to heal before engaging in sports again. Livingston HealthCare has partnered
with the Park County schools to improve the identification of concussions
through the use of a program called ImPACT, short for "immediate
post-concussion assessment and cognitive testing."
What Is ImPACT?
ImPACT screening is a simple and effective way to help identify concussions
in student athletes and treat concussions more effectively. The testing
process is voluntary and is not a requirement to participate in activities,
but it is highly encouraged because it increases the safety of student-athletes.
ImPACT screening is a baseline test designed to measure a student-athlete's:
- Short-term memory
- Long-term memory
- Visual motor speed
- Reaction time
In the event that a student-athlete suffers a concussion, another ImPACT
test may be performed and compared to the baseline. This can be used to
determine the degree of impairment and assist in the treatment of the
concussion.
For more information on how the ImPACT Screening process works, talk with
your school coach or trainer or call 406.222.7231.