Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 10, 2026

11:32
A Neuroscientific Approach to the Examination of Concussions in Student-Athletes
Published on: December 8, 2014
Concept analysis of concussion.
1College of Nursing, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA. Traci.Snedden@ucdenver.edu
Journal for Specialists in Pediatric Nursing : JSPN
|July 5, 2013
Summary
Millions of adolescent athletes experience concussions annually. This study identifies a single, clear definition for concussion to improve understanding and recognition of this common sports injury.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Pediatric Nursing
- Neurology
Background:
- Concussion incidence in US adolescent athletes is estimated between 1.6-3.8 million annually.
- Conceptual ambiguity surrounding concussion definitions likely leads to underestimation of true incidence.
- Lack of a standardized definition hinders accurate diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and advocate for a single, unified definition of concussion.
- To enhance the understanding of concussion as a clinical concept.
- To provide clarity for pediatric nursing practice.
Main Methods:
- Concept analysis to establish defining attributes, antecedents, and consequences of concussion.
- Review of existing literature and clinical case examples.
- Synthesis of information to support a singular definition.
Main Results:
- Established defining attributes, antecedents, and consequences of concussion.
- Provided sample cases from pediatric clinical practice to illustrate the concept.
- Highlighted the importance of a clear definition for improved recognition.
Conclusions:
- A clear, unified definition of concussion is essential for advancing knowledge and recognition.
- Improved understanding can lead to better management strategies.
- Implementing a standardized definition may decrease the risk of long-term effects and negative outcomes.
Related Concept Videos
Traumatic Brain Injury l: Introduction
DefinitionTraumatic brain injury, or TBI, is a disturbance of normal brain function induced by an external mechanical force, such as a direct blow to the head or a penetrating injury. It can affect both brain structure and function, producing a wide range of clinical outcomes. TBI is a heterogeneous condition, meaning its effects may differ based on the type, location, and severity of the injury.Basis of ClassificationTBI is classified based on severity, injury mechanism, or pathophysiology. In...
Spinal Cord Injury ll: Pathophysiology
Spinal cord injury progresses through two interconnected phases: primary injury and secondary injury.Primary InjuryPrimary injury happens at the moment of trauma and involves immediate mechanical damage to the spinal cord.Compression happens when broken vertebrae, herniated discs, or accumulating blood (such as a hematoma) press directly against the spinal cord, distorting its normal shape and function. In cases of contusion, the cord is bruised by a blunt force (like penetrating injuries or...
Understanding Consciousness
Consciousness can be defined as the state of being aware of and able to think about one's existence, sensations, and surroundings. It encompasses two major components: awareness and arousal. Awareness pertains to the recognition of environmental stimuli and internal states. At the same time, arousal refers to the physiological readiness to engage with these stimuli, which varies significantly between states like sleep and wakefulness.
Sleep, a crucial state, is characterized by reduced physical...
Sleep, a crucial state, is characterized by reduced physical...
