A nurse is providing education to a group of high school athletes about concussion prevention and management. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason:

This is an incorrect answer. The client does not need further teaching if they say they will take acetaminophen if they have a headache. Acetaminophen is a safe and effective medication for pain relief after a concussion. It does not increase the risk of bleeding or interfere with brain function.

Choice B reason:

This is an incorrect answer. The client does not need further teaching if they say they will avoid drinking alcohol or taking sleeping pills. Alcohol and sleeping pills can worsen the symptoms and recovery of a concussion. They can also mask the signs of worsening brain injury or increase the risk of falls or accidents.

Choice C reason:

This is a correct answer. The client needs further teaching if they say they will check their pupils every hour for any changes. Checking the pupils is not a reliable or accurate way to monitor the condition of a concussion. Pupil changes may not occur until late stages of brain injury or may be caused by other factors such as light exposure or medication use.

Choice D reason:

This is an incorrect answer. The client does not need further teaching if they say they will have someone stay with them for the next 24 hours. Having someone stay with them is a recommended precaution after a concussion. The person can observe the client for any signs of worsening brain injury such as confusion, vomiting, seizures, or loss of consciousness and call for help if needed.

Choice A reason:

This is an incorrect answer. The nurse should not advise the client to resume their normal activities as long as they wear a helmet. A helmet does not prevent concussions from occurring and may give a false sense of security. The client should not return to sports or other physical activities until they are asymptomatic and cleared by their doctor.

Choice B reason:

This is an incorrect answer. The nurse should not advise the client to avoid any physical activity until their symptoms are completely gone. While the client should avoid strenuous or risky activities that could cause another concussion, they may be able to engage in some light or moderate activities that do not worsen their symptoms or increase their heart rate. The client should follow a gradual return-to-play protocol under the guidance of their doctor.

Choice C reason:

This is a correct answer. The nurse should advise the client to consult their doctor first and follow their recommendations. The doctor will evaluate the client's recovery and determine when it is safe for them to return to sports or other physical activities. The doctor will also provide a gradual return-to-play protocol that involves increasing the intensity and duration of activity over several days or weeks.

Choice D reason:

This is an incorrect answer. The nurse should not advise the client to ask their coach or trainer what they think. The coach or trainer may not be qualified or knowledgeable enough to assess the client's condition and readiness to return to sports or other physical activities. The client should rely on their doctor's advice and not on their coach's or trainer's opinion.