A nurse is reviewing discharge instructions with a client who had a concussion two days ago. The client says to the nurse, "I feel fine now. Can I go back to playing soccer tomorrow?" How should the nurse respond?

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.

Choice A reason:

This is a correct answer. Wearing appropriate protective equipment such as helmets and mouth guards helps to reduce the risk and severity of concussion by absorbing some of the impact force and protecting the head and teeth from injury.

Choice B reason:

This is a correct answer. Reporting any symptoms of concussion to the coach or trainer immediately helps to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment of concussion by a health care provider. Symptoms may include headache, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, confusion, memory loss, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light or noise.

Choice C reason:

This is an incorrect answer. Seeking medical attention if symptoms persist for more than 24 hours is not enough for concussion management. The nurse should advise the athletes to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a suspected concussion, regardless of how long the symptoms last or how severe they are.

Choice D reason:

This is a correct answer. Taking a baseline cognitive test before the season starts helps to establish a reference point for comparison after a concussion. A cognitive test measures mental functions such as memory, attention, reaction time, and problem-solving.

Choice E reason:

This is a correct answer. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating a balanced diet after a concussion helps to promote healing and recovery by providing hydration and nutrition to the brain and body.