Sport Concussion Assessment Tool - 5th Edition (SCAT5)

What is the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT5)?

The Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT5) is a comprehensive tool healthcare professionals use to evaluate athletes for possible concussions. Designed to be easy to administer yet highly effective, SCAT5 combines a variety of tests and assessments to provide a holistic view of an athlete's cognitive and physical functioning following a suspected severe concussion in the sport itself.

At its core, SCAT5 consists of several components: symptom evaluation, cognitive assessment, and balance evaluation. The symptom checklist helps clinicians gauge the presence and severity of concussion-related symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, and nausea. Meanwhile, the cognitive assessment section evaluates memory, concentration, and processing speed through tasks like recalling words or numbers.

Balance evaluation, another crucial component of field assessment of SCAT5, assesses an athlete's postural stability and coordination, which can be affected by a concussion. By observing the athlete's performance in various balance tasks, healthcare providers can detect subtle signs of impairment.

SCAT5 also includes a brief neurological examination to assess motor function, reflexes, and coordination, providing additional insights into the athlete's overall condition.

One of the strengths of SCAT5 is its versatility, as it can be used across different sports and age groups, with modifications available for pediatric athletes. Additionally, SCAT5 is regularly updated based on the latest research and consensus in sports-related concussion management, ensuring that it remains a reliable and up-to-date tool for healthcare professionals.

The Sports Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT5) is a vital instrument in evaluating and managing concussions in athletes, offering a standardized approach to assessing symptoms, cognitive function, balance, and neurological status. Its comprehensive nature and adaptability make it an indispensable resource for healthcare providers striving to ensure the safety and well-being of athletes at all levels of competition.

How to use the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT5):

Step 1: Immediate assessment

Upon suspicion of a concussion, conduct an immediate assessment focusing on red flags and observable signs outlined in the SCAT5 template. Look for symptoms like neck pain, balance issues, and disorientation. If any red flags are present, swiftly remove the athlete from play and seek medical attention.

Step 2: Comprehensive examination

Proceed with a thorough examination, including memory assessment using Maddocks questions and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) examination. Evaluate the athlete's cognitive function, neurological status, and potential spinal cord and head injury beforehand. Ensure each component of the field assessment is conducted accurately, following the provided instructions.

Step 3: Off-field assessment

Transition to off-field assessment, gathering background information about the athlete and conducting symptom evaluation. Use the provided symptom form to report baseline values and assess symptoms' severity and impact on the athlete's well-being.

Step 4: Cognitive screening

Administer cognitive screening tests, including orientation questions and immediate memory tests, to further assess cognitive function. Record the athlete's test responses and scores accurately to aid in diagnosis and management.

Step 5: Interpretation and action

Interpret the results of the original SCAT-5 assessment carefully, considering the athlete's symptoms, cognitive function, and neurological status. Based on the findings, determine the appropriate course of action, whether it involves immediate medical attention, further evaluation, or a return-to-play protocol.

Step 6: Follow-up

Monitor the athlete closely for any changes in symptoms or condition. Repeat evaluations to track progress and ensure the athlete's safety and well-being. Follow established protocols for return-to-play decisions, prioritizing the athlete's health above all else.

By following these steps and utilizing the SCAT5 template effectively, healthcare professionals can conduct comprehensive assessments of athletes suspected of having concussions, ensuring timely and appropriate management of these injuries.

How to score the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT5)

Scoring the SCAT5 involves assessing various components to gauge the severity of concussion symptoms and cognitive impairment. Each section of the concussion assessment tool 5 contributes to the overall evaluation of the athlete's condition.

• Symptom evaluation: Using the symptom scale provided, record the athlete's self-reported symptoms and severity, ranging from none to severe. Total the scores to determine the overall symptom severity score.
• Cognitive screening: Administer cognitive tests such as orientation questions and immediate memory tests. Record the athlete's responses and calculate scores based on correct answers.
• Balance assessment: Observe the athlete's balance and gait for signs of impairment, such as stumbling or unsteady movements. Note any difficulties observed in the evaluation.
• Neurological examination: Use the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) to assess the athlete's level of consciousness, eye response, verbal response, and motor response. Calculate the GCS score based on the responses obtained during the examination.
• Cervical Spine assessment: Evaluate the athlete for neck pain, range of motion, limb strength, and sensation. Determine if there are any signs of cervical spine injury.

After completing each assessment section, interpret the scores with the athlete's history and clinical presentation. When analyzing the results, consider age, previous concussions, and student-athlete background medical history.

Remember, the SCAT5 is a tool to aid in the assessment of concussions and should not be used in isolation to make a diagnosis. It's crucial to use clinical judgment and consider the overall context when interpreting scores and determining the appropriate course of action for the athlete's care.

When is the best time to use the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT5)?

Immediate assessment after head trauma

Following any head trauma in sports or physical activities, utilize SCAT5 immediately to assess for signs of concussion. This standardized concussion assessment tool five aids in promptly evaluating cognitive and neurological function, ensuring timely medical intervention if necessary.

Baseline testing for student-athletes

Conduct baseline SCAT5 assessments for collegiate student-athletes before their sports season begins. This establishes individual baseline values for comparison in case of suspected concussions during the season, enhancing the accuracy of post-injury evaluations.

On-field evaluation by medical professionals

Licensed healthcare professionals should use SCAT5 for on-field evaluation of athletes suspected of having concussions. Its comprehensive nature allows for thorough cognitive testing and neurological screening, ensuring accurate assessment even in high-pressure situations.

Post-concussion follow-up

Following a diagnosed concussion, employ SCAT5 during post-concussion follow-up appointments to monitor recovery progress. Assess self-reported symptoms, cognitive function, and motor coordination changes to guide return-to-play decisions and ensure athlete safety.

Off-field assessment in clinical settings

In clinical settings, healthcare professionals can use SCAT5 for off-field assessment of concussions. This allows for a more thorough evaluation of student-athlete backgrounds, including medical history and baseline values, aiding in comprehensive management strategies.

Evaluating suspected concussions in any setting

Whether on the field, in a clinical office, or during post-concussion follow-up appointments, SCAT5 is the go-to assessment tool for evaluating suspected concussions. Its standardized approach ensures consistency and accuracy in assessing cognitive function, neurological status, and motor coordination.

Who can use the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT5), and for whom is it?

Licensed healthcare professionals

Licensed healthcare professionals are qualified to administer and interpret SCAT5 assessments. They utilize this standardized tool for evaluating concussions in athletes of all ages, ensuring accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

Collegiate student-athletes

Collegiate student-athletes undergo SCAT5 assessments as part of baseline testing before their sports season begins. This establishes individual baseline values for comparison and aids in post-concussion management strategies.

Physicians

Physicians utilize SCAT5 for the off-field assessment of concussions in athletes. Whether in clinical settings or during post-concussion follow-up appointments, they rely on this assessment tool to monitor recovery progress and guide return-to-play decisions.

Sports medicine specialists

Sports medicine specialists use SCAT5 to assess athletes suspected of having concussions. This includes evaluating cognitive function, neurological status, and motor coordination, ensuring comprehensive management of sports-related head injuries.

Athletic trainers

Athletic trainers are trained to administer SCAT5 assessments on the field for immediate evaluation of suspected concussions. They follow instructions to assess symptoms, cognitive function, and motor coordination, prioritizing athlete safety.

Parents and caregivers

Parents and caregivers of child and youth athletes can utilize printable SCAT5 forms for baseline testing and post-injury assessments. They can administer SCAT5 under the guidance of licensed healthcare professionals, aiding in the evaluation and management of concussions in children and adolescents.

Coaches and team staff

Coaches and team staff play a crucial role in recognizing concussion symptoms and initiating SCAT5 testing. They should be familiar with the assessment tool and follow instructions for proper administration and interpretation, prioritizing athlete safety above all else.

What are the benefits of the Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT5)?

Standardized evaluation

SCAT5 provides a standardized approach to evaluating concussions, ensuring consistency and accuracy in assessments across healthcare professionals and settings. This standardization enhances the reliability of concussion diagnoses and management strategies.

Comprehensive assessment

The SCAT5 encompasses various components of the concussion symptom scale, including symptom evaluation, cognitive screening, balance assessment, and neurological examination. This comprehensive evaluation allows for a thorough assessment of concussion symptoms and associated impairments.

Baseline testing

Baseline SCAT5 testing enables establishing individual baseline values for athletes before their sports season begins. These baseline values are a reference point for comparison in case of suspected concussions during the season, aiding in accurate diagnosis and management.

Objective monitoring

SCAT5 allows for objective monitoring of concussion symptoms and recovery progress over time. By tracking changes in symptoms, cognitive function, and motor coordination, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions regarding return-to-play protocols and athlete safety.

Multidisciplinary collaboration

SCAT5 promotes collaboration among healthcare professionals, coaches, athletic trainers, and parents in the assessment and management of concussions. This multidisciplinary approach ensures comprehensive care for athletes and enhances their safety and well-being.