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Yeargin S, Hirschhorn RM, Adams WM, Scarneo-Miller SE. Secondary School State Athletic Association Health and Safety Policy Development Processes. THE JOURNAL OF SCHOOL HEALTH 2024; 94:591-600. [PMID: 38621415 DOI: 10.1111/josh.13454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 03/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The National Federation of State High School Associations provides recommendations regarding health and safety policies; however, policy development is governed at the state level. Given interstate differences in governance, the primary purpose was to describe processes that State High School Athletic Associations (SHSAAs) utilize to develop a new policy. The secondary objective was to determine what methods associations use to implement new policies. METHODS A cross-sectional survey requested SHSAA (n = 51) representatives to report how athlete health and safety policies are introduced, revised, approved, and implemented within their state. The 22-question survey was developed to gather variables for the aims of the study. Descriptive statistics were calculated for each survey item. RESULTS Of states who responded (n = 33), most reported a 2-committee (n = 24, 72.7%) process for developing and vetting policies, with initiation from the Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (n = 27, 81.8%), followed by an executive-level committee (n = 18, 66.7%). States reported total time from policy initiation to final approval ranged from 2 weeks to over 12 months. When a new policy was approved, most states indicated implementation began with an e-mail (n = 24, 72.7%) sent to Athletic Directors (n = 26, 78.8%). School principal or district superintendent were reported as the position in charge of compliance (36.4%, n = 12). CONCLUSIONS Most SHSAAs use a 2-step process to write and review an athlete health and safety policy before approval. SHSAAs that require a longer policy development time could delay the implementation of important health measures. SHSAAs could consider additional communication methods to ensure information reaches all stakeholders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Yeargin
- University of South Carolina, 921 Assembly St, PHRC Rm 226, Columbia, SC, 29208
| | - Rebecca M Hirschhorn
- Louisiana State University, School of Kinesiology, 2213 Pleasant Hall, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803
| | - William M Adams
- Sports Medicine Research, Division of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, 1 Olympic Plaza, Colorado Springs, CO, 80917
| | - Samantha E Scarneo-Miller
- School of Medicine, Division of Athletic Training, West Virginia University, 1 Medical Center Drive, 8501A Health Science Center South, Morgantown, WV, 26508
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Kerr ZY, Diana JC, Adams WM, Register-Mihalik JK, Nedimyer AK. The initial visibility of updated recommendations on preseason heat safety in high school athletics among United States athletic trainers. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0300669. [PMID: 38517911 PMCID: PMC10959349 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0300669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/24/2024] Open
Abstract
Updated recommendations on preseason heat safety in high school (HS) athletics ("2021 Consensus Statements") were published in April 2021. This cross-sectional survey study explored the initial roll-out of the 2021 Consensus Statements, including their visibility among United States HS athletic trainers (ATs) and perceived levels of confidence in implementing them. Recruitment occurred first, from a random selection of ATs from the Board of Certification, Inc., and second, an open invitation via social media. An online cross-sectional questionnaire had participating ATs note whether they had seen the 2021 Consensus Statements. If yes, ATs reported their perceived level of confidence in implementing them (5-point-ordinal scale from "not at all confident" to "very confident); if no, ATs disclosed (open-ended) why they had not yet seen them. Descriptive statistics were calculated for quantitative variables; template analysis identified codes related to visibility of and confidence in implementing 2021 Consensus Statements. Nearly half (45.7%) of 116 responding HS ATs reported having seen at least one 2021 Consensus Statements; 23.3% had reviewed all three. Common reasons among the 63 that had not seen them included: not aware they were published (n = 22), have yet to read them (n = 19), and believed they could not access the journal (n = 10). Of the 53 ATs having seen at least one of the 2021 Consensus Statements, 67.9% (n = 36) were very/fairly confident in implementing them at their HS. Reasons for confidence included their schools ensuring up-to-date EHI prevention and management practices (n = 18) and athletics constituent support (n = 8). This exploratory study observed proportions of surveyed HS ATs that had not seen the 2021 Consensus Statements and were not confident in implementing them. Findings highlight the need to continue improving messaging about access to best-practice recommendations. Further, continued efforts inclusive of active and passive dissemination strategies across all athletics constituents are needed to aid proper implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Yukio Kerr
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Jake C. Diana
- Human Movement Science Curriculum, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - William M. Adams
- Department of Sports Medicine, United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, Colorado Springs, CO, United States of America
- United States Coalition for the Prevention of Illness and Injury in Sport, Colorado Springs, CO, United States of America
- Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, United States of America
- School of Sport, Exercise and Health Sciences, Loughborough University, Leicestershire, United Kingdom
| | - Johna K. Register-Mihalik
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
| | - Aliza K. Nedimyer
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, United States of America
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Stearns RL, Hosokawa Y, Belval LN, Martin DG, Huggins RA, Jardine JF, Casa DJ. Exertional Heat Stroke Survival at the Falmouth Road Race: 180 New Cases With Expanded Analysis. J Athl Train 2024; 59:304-309. [PMID: 37655801 PMCID: PMC10976335 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0065.23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT A high number of exertional heat stroke (EHS) cases occur during the Falmouth Road Race. OBJECTIVES To extend previous analyses of EHS cases during the Falmouth Road Race by assessing or describing (1) EHS and heat exhaustion (HE) incidence rates, (2) EHS outcomes as they relate to survival, (3) the effect of the environment on these outcomes, and (4) how this influences medical provider planning and preparedness. DESIGN Descriptive epidemiologic study. SETTING Falmouth Road Race. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS Patients with EHS or HE admitted to the medical tent. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) We obtained 8 years (2012 to 2019) of Falmouth Road Race anonymous EHS and HE medical records. Meteorologic data were collected and analyzed to evaluate the effect of environmental conditions on the heat illness incidence (exertional heat illness [EHI] = EHS + HE). The EHS treatment and outcomes (ie, cooling time, survival, and discharge outcome), number of HE patients, and wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) for each race were analyzed. RESULTS A total of 180 EHS and 239 HE cases were identified. Overall incidence rates per 1000 participants were 2.07 for EHS and 2.76 for HE. The EHI incidence rate was 4.83 per 1000 participants. Of the 180 EHS cases, 100% survived, and 20% were transported to the emergency department. The WBGT was strongly correlated with the incidence of both EHS (r2 = 0.904, P = .026) and EHI (r2 = 0.912, P = .023). CONCLUSIONS This is the second-largest civilian database of EHS cases reported. When combined with the previous dataset of EHS survivors from this race, it amounts to 454 EHS cases resulting in 100% survival. The WBGT remained a strong predictor of EHS and EHI cases. These findings support 100% survival from EHS when patients over a wide range of ages and sexes are treated with cold-water immersion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L. Stearns
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs
| | | | | | - David G. Martin
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs
| | - Robert A. Huggins
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs
| | - John F. Jardine
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs
| | - Douglas J. Casa
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs
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Flouris AD, Notley SR, Stearns RL, Casa DJ, Kenny GP. Recommended water immersion duration for the field treatment of exertional heat stroke when rectal temperature is unavailable. Eur J Appl Physiol 2024; 124:479-490. [PMID: 37552243 DOI: 10.1007/s00421-023-05290-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The recommended treatment for exertional heat stroke is immediate, whole-body immersion in < 10 °C water until rectal temperature (Tre) reaches ≤ 38.6 °C. However, real-time Tre assessment is not always feasible or available in field settings or emergency situations. We defined and validated immersion durations for water temperatures of 2-26 °C for treating exertional heat stroke. METHODS We compiled data for 54 men and 18 women from 7 previous laboratory studies and derived immersion durations for reaching 38.6 °C Tre. The resulting immersion durations were validated against the durations of cold-water immersion used to treat 162 (98 men; 64 women) exertional heat stroke cases at the Falmouth Road Race between 1984 and 2011. RESULTS Age, height, weight, body surface area, body fat, fat mass, lean body mass, and peak oxygen uptake were weakly associated with the cooling time to a safe Tre of 38.6 °C during immersions to 2-26 °C water (R2 range: 0.00-0.16). Using a specificity criterion of 0.9, receiver operating characteristics curve analysis showed that exertional heat stroke patients must be immersed for 11-12 min when water temperature is ≤ 9 °C, and for 18-19 min when water temperature is 10-26 °C (Cohen's Kappa: 0.32-0.75, p < 0.001; diagnostic odds ratio: 8.63-103.27). CONCLUSION The reported immersion durations are effective for > 90% of exertional heat stroke patients with pre-immersion Tre of 39.5-42.8 °C. When available, real-time Tre monitoring is the standard of care to accurately diagnose and treat exertional heat stroke, avoiding adverse health outcomes associated with under- or over-cooling, and for implementing cool-first transport second exertional heat stroke policies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas D Flouris
- FAME Laboratory, Department of Physical Education and Sport Science, University of Thessaly, Trikala, Greece
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Sean R Notley
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Defence Science and Technology Group, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Rebecca L Stearns
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Douglas J Casa
- Korey Stringer Institute, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT, USA
| | - Glen P Kenny
- Human and Environmental Physiology Research Unit, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
- Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada.
- Montpetit Hall, 125 University Private, Room 367, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5, Canada.
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Yeargin S, Hirschhorn R, Grundstein A, Arango D, Graham A, Krebs A, Turner S. Variations of wet-bulb globe temperature across high school athletics in South Carolina. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2023; 67:735-744. [PMID: 37002402 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-023-02449-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2022] [Revised: 02/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The purpose was to describe wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) throughout a high school fall athletic season (August to November) after a state-wide mandate requiring schools to use a WBGT-guided activity modification table with categories (AMTC). A cross-sectional research design utilized 30 South Carolina high schools. The independent variables were region (upstate, midlands, and coastal), sport (football, tennis, cross-country), month, start times (7-10 am, 10 am-3 pm, 3-6 pm, and 6-9 pm), and event type (practice, competition). Dependent variables were event frequency, average WBGT, and AMTC. Practice WBGT was 78.7 ± 8.2 °F (range: 34.7 to 99.0 °F). A significant difference for WBGT across month (F6, 904.7 = 385.07, P < 0.001) existed, with early September hotter than all other months (84.8 °F ± 3.8, P < 0.001). Every month had practices in each AMTC, until early November. Most events (64.6%, n = 1986) did not change AMTC; however, 9.1% (n = 281) changed to a hotter category. The 10 am-3 pm start time was significantly hotter than all other time frames (83.0 °F ± 7.2, P < 0.05). Tennis experienced hotter practices (79.9 °F ± 6.9) than football (78.4 °F ± 8.5; P < 0.001) and cross country (78.2 °F ± 8.8, P < 0.001). Schools in the Midlands experienced hotter practices (80.1 °F ± 7.8) than upstate (P < 0.001) and coastal schools (P = 0.005). Competition WBGT was significantly cooler than practices (72.3 ± 10.5 °F, t = 12.04, P < 0.001) and differed across sports (F2, 20.78 = 18.39, P < .001). Both cross-country (P = 0.003) and tennis (P < 0.001) were hotter than football. Schools should continuously monitor WBGT throughout practices and until November to optimize AMTC use. Risk mitigation strategies are needed for sports other than football to decrease the risk of exertional heat illnesses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Yeargin
- Exercise Science Department, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA.
| | - Rebecca Hirschhorn
- School of Kinesiology, Louisana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisana, USA
| | | | - Dylan Arango
- Exercise Science Department, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Adam Graham
- Exercise Science Department, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Amy Krebs
- Exercise Science Department, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Sydney Turner
- Exercise Science Department, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
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Garrett B, Lopez RM, Szymanski MR, Eidt D. Proper Recognition and Management of Exertional Heat Stroke in a High School Cross-Country Runner: A Validation Clinical Case Report. J Athl Train 2022; 57:586-591. [PMID: 35969664 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0462.21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
A 14-year-old female high school cross- country runner (height = 154 cm, mass = 48.1 kg) with no history of exertional heat stroke (EHS) collapsed at the end of a race. An athletic trainer assessed the patient, who presented with difficulty breathing and then other signs of EHS (eg, confusion and agitation). The patient was taken to the medical area and draped with a towel, and a rectal temperature (Tre) of 106.9°F (41.6°C) was obtained. The emergency action plan was activated, and emergency medical services was called. The patient was submerged in a cold-water immersion tub until emergency medical services arrived (∼15 minutes; Tre = 100.1°F; cooling rate: 0.41°F.min-1[0.25°C.min-1]). At the hospital, the patient received intravenous fluids, and urine and blood tests were normal. She was not admitted and returned to running without sequelae. Following best practices, secondary school athletic trainers can prevent deaths from EHS by properly recognizing the condition and providing rapid cooling before transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryanna Garrett
- School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences; Department of Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine; Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | - Rebecca M Lopez
- School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences; Department of Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine; Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
| | | | - Drew Eidt
- School of Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation Sciences; Department of Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine; Morsani College of Medicine, University of South Florida, Tampa
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Bouchama A, Abuyassin B, Lehe C, Laitano O, Jay O, O'Connor FG, Leon LR. Classic and exertional heatstroke. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2022; 8:8. [PMID: 35115565 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-021-00334-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 111] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
In the past two decades, record-breaking heatwaves have caused an increasing number of heat-related deaths, including heatstroke, globally. Heatstroke is a heat illness characterized by the rapid rise of core body temperature above 40 °C and central nervous system dysfunction. It is categorized as classic when it results from passive exposure to extreme environmental heat and as exertional when it develops during strenuous exercise. Classic heatstroke occurs in epidemic form and contributes to 9-37% of heat-related fatalities during heatwaves. Exertional heatstroke sporadically affects predominantly young and healthy individuals. Under intensive care, mortality reaches 26.5% and 63.2% in exertional and classic heatstroke, respectively. Pathological studies disclose endothelial cell injury, inflammation, widespread thrombosis and bleeding in most organs. Survivors of heatstroke may experience long-term neurological and cardiovascular complications with a persistent risk of death. No specific therapy other than rapid cooling is available. Physiological and morphological factors contribute to the susceptibility to heatstroke. Future research should identify genetic factors that further describe individual heat illness risk and form the basis of precision-based public health response. Prioritizing research towards fundamental mechanism and diagnostic biomarker discovery is crucial for the design of specific management approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abderrezak Bouchama
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Experimental Medicine Department, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Ministry of National Guard - Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
| | - Bisher Abuyassin
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Experimental Medicine Department, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Ministry of National Guard - Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Cynthia Lehe
- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Experimental Medicine Department, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Ministry of National Guard - Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Orlando Laitano
- Department of Nutrition & Integrative Physiology, College of Health and Human Sciences, Florida State University, Tallahassee, FL, USA
| | - Ollie Jay
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Francis G O'Connor
- Military and Emergency Medicine, Uniformed Services University, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Lisa R Leon
- Thermal and Mountain Medicine Division, United States Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, Massachusetts, USA
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Hedberg R, Messamore W, Poppe T, Tarakemeh A, Burkholder R, Carter T, Vopat B, Darche JP. Emergency Action Planning in School-Based Athletics: A Systematic Review. Kans J Med 2021; 14:282-286. [PMID: 34868470 PMCID: PMC8641435 DOI: 10.17161/kjm.vol14.15299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction A significant number of preventable catastrophic injuries occur in secondary school athletics. Compliance to Emergency Action Plan (EAP) recommendations is not well documented. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify compliance to EAP recommendations, access to an athletic trainer (AT) and automated external defibrillator (AED), and current legislative mandates in school-based athletics. Methods Electronic databases were searched to identify articles that met criteria for inclusion. Studies in English that focused on adoption, implementation, or compliance with EAPs or other national guidelines pertaining to athlete health were eligible for inclusion. Quality and validity were examined in each article and data were grouped based on outcome measures. Results Of 12,906 studies, 21 met the criteria for inclusion and full text review. Nine studies demonstrated EAP adoption rates ranging from 55% - 100%. Five studies found that EAPs were rehearsed and reviewed annually in 18.2% - 91.6% of schools that have an EAP. At total of 9.9% of schools were compliant with all 12 National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) EAP guidelines. A total of 2.5% - 27.5% of schools followed NATA exertional heat illness guidelines and 50% - 81% of schools had access to an athletic trainer. In addition, 61% - 94.4% of schools had an AED available at their athletic venues. Four of 51 state high school athletic association member schools were required to meet best practice standards for EAP implementation, 7 of 51 for AED access, 8 of 51 for heat acclimation, and 3 of 51 for concussion management. Conclusions There was a wide range of EAP adoption and a low rate of compliance to EAP guidelines in U.S. schools. Barriers to EAP adoption and compliance were not well documented and additional research should aim to identify impeding and facilitating factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley Hedberg
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Sports Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - William Messamore
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Sports Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Tanner Poppe
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Sports Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Armin Tarakemeh
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Sports Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | | | - Trent Carter
- University of Kansas Health System, Lawrence, KS
| | - Bryan Vopat
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Sports Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
| | - Jean-Philippe Darche
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Orthopedic Sports Medicine, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS
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Merchant RK, Grundstein A, Yeargin S, Emerson D. Exertional heat illnesses in marching band artists: a case series. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF BIOMETEOROLOGY 2021; 65:2181-2188. [PMID: 34424411 DOI: 10.1007/s00484-021-02183-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2021] [Revised: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Marching band (MB) artists frequently spend many hours engaged in outdoor physical activity. Anecdotal evidence and small studies have indicated that MB artists do experience heat-related health problems. Yet, unlike athletes, military personnel, or workers, there is very little research on heat-related hazards among this unique population. Here, we seek to understand the incidence and circumstances under which exertional heat illnesses (EHIs) occur among MB artists over a 31-year period (1990-2020) across the USA. Using an on-line news dataset, we identified 34 separate events and at least 393 total EHIs. Heat syncope (~ 55%) and heat exhaustion (~ 44%) comprised the majority of EHIs, although a small number of exertional heat stroke cases were also reported. EHIs were reported in all types of MB activities with ~ 32% during rehearsal, ~ 29% during parades, ~ 21% during competition, and ~ 15% during a performance. Also, the vast majority of events occurred with high school (~ 88%) marching bands. Finally, EHIs overwhelmingly occurred when the weather was unusually hot by local conditions. In light of these findings, we emphasize the need for MB specific heat polices that incorporate weather-based activity modification, acclimatization, education about EHIs, and access to on-site medical professionals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rashawn K Merchant
- Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA
| | - Andrew Grundstein
- Department of Geography, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, 30602, USA.
| | - Susan Yeargin
- Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, 29208, USA
| | - Dawn Emerson
- Department of Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation Science, and Athletic Training, School of Health Professions, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
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Williams RM, Root HJ, Valovich McLeod TC. Athletic Administrators' Reporting of Emergency Preparedness Regarding Policies and Procedures in Iowa Secondary Schools. J Athl Train 2021; 56:1224-1231. [PMID: 34752627 PMCID: PMC8582625 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-0494.20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Secondary schools that offer school-sponsored athletic events should follow best-practice guidelines to provide policies that promote student health and safety. OBJECTIVE To assess emergency preparedness from the perspective of athletic administrators (AAs) in Iowa secondary schools. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Online survey. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS Ninety-eight AAs from Iowa completed the survey (age = 45.33 ± 10.22 years, years as an AA = 9.37 ± 8.14, years in current role = 7.72 ± 7.09). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES(S) The 6-section survey contained with questions about access to athletic trainers (ATs), emergency action plans (EAPs), cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), automated external defibrillators (AEDs), concussions, heat illness, and other general policies. Descriptive statistics (percentages and frequencies) were reported. Relative risk was calculated to compare schools with and those without access to ATs (P < .05). RESULTS Most respondents (76.5%, n = 75/98) reported their school had access to a licensed AT. The majority had a written EAP (83.3%, n = 70/84), but fewer than half (39.2%, n = 31/79) reviewed it annually and fewer than 10% (n = 6/85) reported practicing it each year. All respondents (100%, N = 78/78) stated they had an AED on campus. All respondents (N = 77/77) indicated that they were familiar with the Iowa High School Athletic Association's (IHSAA's) concussion policy and had a concussion guideline in place. Many respondents (95.9%, n = 71/74) described being familiar with the IHSAA's heat illness policy, but more than half (62.1%, n = 41/66) noted they did not have a heat illness policy in place at their school. CONCLUSIONS Most respondents indicated their school had access to ATs, followed the state-mandated concussion guidelines, and had an AED. Although participants reported having written EAPs in place, levels of annual EAP review and practice were low. These results suggest that schools would benefit from educational opportunities to improve safety policies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Hayley J. Root
- Department of Physical Therapy and Athletic Training, Northern Arizona University, Phoenix
| | - Tamara C. Valovich McLeod
- Athletic Training Programs and School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona, A.T. Still University, Mesa
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Scarneo-Miller SE, Lopez RM, Miller KC, Adams WM, Kerr ZY, Casa DJ. High Schools' Adoption of Evidence-Based Practices for the Management of Exertional Heat Stroke. J Athl Train 2021; 56:1142-1153. [PMID: 34662417 PMCID: PMC8530428 DOI: 10.4085/1062-6050-361-20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Exertional heat stroke (EHS) deaths can be prevented by adhering to best practices. OBJECTIVE To investigate high schools' adoption of policies and procedures for recognizing and treating patients with EHS and the factors influencing the adoption of a comprehensive policy. DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Online questionnaire. PATIENTS OR OTHER PARTICIPANTS Athletic trainers (ATs) practicing in the high school (HS) setting. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Using the National Athletic Trainers' Association position statement on exertional heat illness, we developed an online questionnaire and distributed it to ATs to ascertain their schools' current written policies for using rectal temperature and cold-water immersion. The precaution adoption process model allowed for responses to be presented across the various health behavior stages (unaware if have the policy, unaware of the need for the policy, unengaged, undecided, decided not to act, decided to act, acting, and maintaining). Additional questions addressed perceptions of facilitators and barriers. Data are presented as proportions. RESULTS A total of 531 ATs completed the questionnaire. Overall, 16.9% (n = 62) reported adoption of all components for the proper recognition and treatment of EHS. The component with the highest adoption level was "cool first, transport second"; 74.1% (n = 110) of ATs described acting on or maintaining the policy. The most variability in the precaution adoption process model responses was for a rectal temperature policy; 28.7% (n = 103) of ATs stated they decided not to act and 20.1% (n = 72) stated they maintained the policy. The most frequently cited facilitator of and barrier to obtaining rectal temperature were a mandate from the state HS athletics association (n = 274, 51.5%) and resistance to or apprehension of parents or legal guardians (n = 311, 58.5%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Athletic trainers in the HS setting appeared to be struggling to adopt a comprehensive EHS strategy, with rectal temperature continuing as the biggest challenge. Tailored strategies based on health behavior, facilitators, and barriers may aid in changing this paradigm.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - William M. Adams
- Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro
| | | | - Douglas J. Casa
- Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut, Storrs
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Tripp BL, Winkelmann ZK, Eberman LE, Smith MS. Factors Affecting Incidence Rate of Exertional Heat Illnesses: Analysis of 6 Years of High School Football Practices in North Central Florida. Orthop J Sports Med 2021; 9:23259671211026627. [PMID: 34568503 PMCID: PMC8461130 DOI: 10.1177/23259671211026627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Although experts have advocated for regionally specific heat safety guidelines for decades, guidelines have not been universally adopted. Purpose To describe the rate and risk factors associated with exertional heat illness (EHI). Study Design Descriptive epidemiology study. Methods For a 3-month period (August-October) over 6 years (2013-2018), athletic trainers at 13 high schools in North Central Florida recorded varsity football practice time and length, wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT), and incidences of EHI, including heat stroke, heat exhaustion, and heat syncope. Results Athletes sustained 54 total EHIs during 163,254 athlete-exposures (AEs) for the 3-month data collection periods over 6 years (incidence rate [IR], 3.31 /10,000 AEs). Heat exhaustion accounted for 59.3% (32/54), heat syncope 38.9% (21/54), and heat stroke 1.9% (1/54) of all EHIs recorded. Of the EHIs, 94.4% (51/54) were experienced within the first 19 practices. The first 19 practices had an IR of 7.48 of 10,000 AEs, and the remaining 44 practices had an IR of 0.32 of 10,000 AEs, demonstrating that the risk of EHI for practices 1 to 19 was 23.7 times that of the remaining practices. When comparing morning to afternoon practices, 35.2% (19/54) EHI incidents occurred during morning practices. The risk of EHI during practices with WBGT >82°F (27.8°C) was 3.5 times that of practices with WBGT <82°F. Conclusion In the current study, the risk of EHI was greatest in the first 19 practices of the season and during practices with WBGT >82°F. As modifiable risk factors for EHI, increased vigilance and empowerment to adhere to acclimatization guidelines can mitigate EHI risk. Health care providers must continue to advocate for implementation of regulations and the authority to make decisions to ensure patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brady L Tripp
- Department of Applied Physiology & Kinesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Zachary K Winkelmann
- Department of Exercise Science, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Lindsey E Eberman
- Department of Applied Medicine and Rehabilitation, Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana, USA
| | - Michael Seth Smith
- Department of Orthopedics, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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Grundstein AJ, Scarneo-Miller SE, Adams WM, Casa DJ. From theory to practice: operationalizing a climate vulnerability for sport organizations framework for heat hazards among US High schools. J Sci Med Sport 2020; 24:718-722. [PMID: 33281092 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsams.2020.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2020] [Revised: 11/10/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sport organizations must comprehensively assess the degree to which their athletes are susceptible to exertional heat illnesses (i.e. vulnerable) to appropriately plan and adapt for heat-related hazards. Yet, no heat vulnerability framework has been applied in practice to guide decision making. OBJECTIVES We quantify heat vulnerability of state-level requirements for health and safety standards affecting United States (US) high school athletes as a case study. DESIGN Observational. METHODS We utilize a newly developed climate vulnerability to sports organizations framework (CVSO), which considers the heat hazard of each state using summer maximum wet bulb globe temperature (WBGT) in combination with an 18-point heat safety scoring system (18 = best policy). Heat vulnerability is categorized as "problem" [higher heat (>27.9°C) and lower policy score (≤9)], "fortified" [higher heat (>27.9°C) and higher policy score (>9)], "responsive" [lower heat (<27.9°C) and lower policy score (≤9)], and "proactive" [lower heat (<27.9°C) and higher policy score (>9)]. RESULTS Across the US, the mean WBGT was 28.4±2.4°C and policy score was 6.9±4.7. In combination, we observed organizations within each of the four vulnerability categories with 16% (n=8) in fortified, 16% (n=8) in proactive, 29% (n=15) in problem, and 39% (n=20) in responsive. CONCLUSIONS The CSVO framework allowed us to identify different degrees of vulnerability among the state's and to highlight the 29% (n=15) of states with immediate needs for policy revisions. We found the CSVO framework to be highly adaptable in our application, suggesting feasibility for use with other sports governing bodies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Samantha E Scarneo-Miller
- Division of Athletic Training, School of Medicine, West Virginia University, Morgantown, WV 26506, USA
| | - William M Adams
- Hydration, Environment, and Thermal Stress Lab, Department of Kinesiology, University of North Carolina at Greensboro, Greensboro, NC, 27412, USA
| | - Douglas J Casa
- Department of Kinesiology, Korey Stringer Institute, University of Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA
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Regional Requirements Influence Adoption of Exertional Heat Illness Preparedness Strategies in United States High Schools. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56100488. [PMID: 32977447 PMCID: PMC7598211 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56100488] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Revised: 09/15/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Exertional heat stroke (EHS) continues to be a prevalent health issue affecting all athletes, including our pediatric populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of a state policy requirement for EHS prevention and treatment on local high school policy adoption in the United States (US). Materials and Methods: Athletic trainers (ATs) from high schools across the US participated in an online survey (n = 365). This survey inquired about their compliance with nine components of an EHS policy which was then compared to their state requirements for the policies. Evaluation of the number of components adopted between states with a requirement versus states without a requirement was conducted with a Wilcoxon Sign Rank test. Finally, an ordinal logistic regression with proportional odds ratios (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were run to determine the effect of a state requirement and regional differences on the number of components adopted. Results: ATs working in states with a requirement reported adoption of more components in their heat modification policy compared to states that did not require schools to develop a heat modification policy (with requirement mean = 5.34 ± 3.68, median = 7.0; without requirement mean = 4.23 ± 3.59, median = 5.0; Z = -14.88, p < 0.001). ATs working in region 3 (e.g., hotter regions) reported adopting more components than those in region 1 (e.g., cooler regions) (OR = 2.25, 95% CI: 1.215-4.201, p = 0.010). Conclusions: Our results demonstrate a positive association between state policy requirements and subsequently increased local policy adoption for EHS policies. Additionally, the results demonstrate that regional differences exist, calling for the need for reducing disparities across the US. These findings may imply that policy adoption is a multifactorial process; furthermore, additional regional specific investigations must be conducted to determine the true determinants of high school policy adoption rates for EHS policies.
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