A Coaches' Guide for Sideline Evaluation

• Why Coaches?
  
  
• What Is a Concussion?
  
  
• How to Recognize Concussions
  
  
• Concussions and Return-to-Play Decisions
  
  
• Grade 1: "Ding" or "Having Your Bell Rung"
  
  
• Grade 2: Out to Lunch
  
  
• Grade 3: Knocked out - Blacked out

Grade 2: Out to Lunch

The athlete remains awake at all times, but is dazed or stares blankly. Any amnesia (memory loss) is a critical warning sign. For example, you may notice the athlete repeatedly asking the same questions without remembering that he or she asked them, or without remembering the answers. If an athlete misses any of the confusion/orientation or memory test questions, suspect a grade 2 concussion and immediately remove him or her from all activities. It is strongly recommended that you seek emergency medical attention for this athlete. He or she probably should not return to athletic activity for a minimum of 5-7 days after all symptoms have disappeared, and should first be cleared by a physician.

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