Child concussion recognition and recovery: a community delivered, evidenced-based solution

Area of Science:

• Pediatric neurology
• Digital health
• Public health communication

Background:

• Pediatric concussion is a significant and growing health concern.
• Community understanding of concussion signs, symptoms, and management is often limited.
• Existing guidelines for concussion recovery and return to activities are not widely known or utilized by parents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To translate evidence-based pediatric concussion guidelines into an accessible digital health tool.
• To develop a smartphone application to aid parents in recognizing concussion and managing their child's recovery.
• To improve the dissemination of best-practice concussion information to the community.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary team developed the HeadCheck smartphone application.
• The app integrates sideline concussion assessment and symptom monitoring tools.
• User testing with target end-users was conducted during the development process.

Main Results:

• HeadCheck provides a platform for disseminating evidence-based concussion management strategies.
• The application assists parents in recognizing potential concussions and serious injury symptoms.
• It offers symptom-targeted psychoeducation to support a child's safe return to school and activities.

Conclusions:

• Digital health technology, like the HeadCheck app, can effectively improve pediatric concussion awareness and management.
• The HeadCheck application empowers parents with tools to navigate their child's concussion recovery.
• Accessible digital resources are crucial for disseminating best-practice concussion care in the community.