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Describing High School Stakeholders' Preferences for a Return-to-School Framework Following Concussion
Heather A Shepherd1,2,3,4,5, Emily Heming2,3,4,5, Nick Reed1,6
1Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
The Journal of School Health
|January 24, 2024
Summary
Adolescents need tailored return-to-school supports after a concussion. Stakeholders prefer a standardized framework with consistent communication and individualized accommodations for a successful school re-entry.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric concussion management
- Adolescent health
- School-based health services
Background:
- Return-to-school supports are crucial for adolescents post-concussion.
- Current understanding of school stakeholder preferences for concussion return-to-school processes is limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the preferences of high school students, parents, and educators for a Return-to-School Framework for adolescents following a concussion.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative semi-structured interviews were conducted with high school students (n=6), parents (n=5), and educators (n=15) in Calgary, Canada.
- Interviews explored preferences for a Return-to-School Framework.
- Data were analyzed using conventional content analysis.
Main Results:
- Four main themes emerged: purpose, format/operation, communication, and education needs for a Return-to-School Framework.
- Participants highlighted the need for a standardized and consistent framework.
- Preferences included ongoing communication and feasible, individualized school supports.
Conclusions:
- A Return-to-School Framework should be developed collaboratively with students, families, and educators.
- Supports must be individualized to meet each student's specific needs.
- Stakeholder input is vital for effective concussion recovery and school reintegration.
