Malta Public Schools joins others in Concussion Program

The Malta Public Schools, Billings Clinic and the Phillips County Hospital are excited to let the community know of their collaboration and partnership associated with developing and implementing here locally a Concussion Program for our high school student athletes. It is through this group of folks working together that all of us involved feel we will be able to make a difference in the care and follow-up of our student athletes so that we can minimize and/or mitigate any adverse effects to them following a concussion related to an extra -curricular event or activity they may be involved in.

The purpose of the program is/was to develop open lines of communication, collaboration and partnerships with the community, area school systems and healthcare providers to develop and implement a Concussion Management Program that utilizes standardized practices and processes to safely and appropriately manage, monitor and return Phillips County

While the program has a reactive and prescriptive standardized response to an event that is guided by the general principles of ImPACT it is still individualized to each student athlete’s special circumstance and situation. The program also has a proactive approach as it is designed and developed to increase awareness and education to the student athletes, parents, coaches, school personnel, healthcare professionals and throughout the entire community to ensure we are protecting our young student athletes.

Following is some general/basic information from the program that everyone should be aware of:

What is a concussion? A concussion is a type of brain injury that changes the way the brain normally works. A concussion is caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head. Even what seems to be a mild bump to the head can be serious.

What are some signs and symptoms of a concussion? (which is not all inclusive and may be different for each student athlete) - Headache, nausea/vomiting, balance problems , dizziness, double or blurred vision, bothered by light and/or noise, feeling sluggish, difficulty paying attention, memory problems, confusion, does not “feel right”

What should you do if you suspect a concussion? Seek medical attention right away. Keep the student athlete out of play. Inform all of the important, needed and necessary people so that the developed Concussion Program can work.

How can you help prevent a concussion? Follow MHAS, school and coaches rules for safety and the rules of the sport. Practicing good sportsmanship. Properly wearing protective equipment for the activity. Learning the signs and symptoms of a concussion.

If any questions please contact the Malta Public Schools or the Phillips County Hospital.

Remember – when in doubt, sit them out!

It is better to miss one game than the whole season or more importantly to not have any long lasting permanent damage to your young student athlete.