Citation

Rodgers J, Slota P, Zamboni B. J. Sch. Nurs. 2018; 34(2): 156-164.

Affiliation

Mathematics and Humanities Department, Carlow University, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, National Association of School Nurses, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

10.1177/1059840517706104

PMID

28436284

Abstract

Exertional heat illness (EHI) is a leading cause of preventable death among student athletes. While causes and preventative measures for EHI are known, school districts may not be implementing evidence-based practices. This descriptive, exploratory study explored school policies, resources, and practices of coaches in a mid-Atlantic state in the prevention and identification of EHI; 397 responded. Ninety-three percent knew of EHI, but only 52% scheduled acclimatization. Coaches reporting a heat emergency plan (56%) were significantly more likely to follow other evidence-based recommendations: altering equipment ( p <.0001, odds ratio [ OR] = 2.53), monitoring environment ( p <.0001, OR = 2.56), providing acclimatization ( p <.0001, OR = 2.50), having athletic trainers at practices ( p <.0001, OR = 4.75), and believed that they could handle the emergency until EMS arrival ( p <.001, OR = 2.48). School districts should comply with evidence-based guidelines. School nurses play a key role in education, developing emergency plans and training coaches in first aid.

Language: en

Keywords

athlete health; best practices/practice guidelines; evidence-based practice; exertional heat illness; heat exhaustion; heat stroke; policies/procedures; safety/injury prevention