Date of Award

Spring 8-1-2005

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Athletic Training

First Advisor

Catherine L. Stemmans

Second Advisor

Jody B. Brucker

Third Advisor

David J. Langley

Abstract

Context: It is unclear the frequency with which athletic training students perform on-field evaluations. Objective: The purpose of this study is to: (1) quantify the frequency senior ATSs observe, assist, and perform on-field evaluations during their clinical rotations; and (2) assess the senior ATSs perceptions of their experiences during on-field evaluations. Design: A 28-item survey entitled Survey of Senior Level Athletic Training Students Perceptions of Quality and Quantity of On-Field Evaluations During Clinical Rotations was developed based on a comprehensive literature review. The survey was grouped as follows: 3 demographic questions, 8 Likert scale statements, 9 "check all that apply", and 8 multiple-choice questions. Subjects: One hundred and seven subjects (males= 34, females= 73, age= 22.28 ± 2.07 yrs) out of 345 senior athletic training students enrolled in CAAHEP accredited athletic training education programs responded to this survey, representing a 31% response rate. Results: Senior athletic training students feel that they are educationally prepared to perform on-field evaluations. They feel more prepared in the lower extremity (99%) than the upper extremity (98%) than the head, neck, and spine (95%). In addition, 95% of senior athletic training students desire to perform more on-field evaluations. Athletic training students generally have more opportunities to observe than to assist than to perform onfield evaluations by body area. The senior athletic training students have had equal experience in observation and assistance with on-field evaluations of the upper extremity, lower extremity, and head, neck, and spine. However, they perform the most number of lV on-field evaluations of the lower extremity (n =182) and the least of the upper extremity (n=32). Conclusion: In conclusion, senior ATS are mentally and emotionally preparing themselves to take on the roles as an ATC and health care provider. During their senior year, ATS should be given more opportunities to perform OFE under direct supervision and guidance. The senior A TS should be proactive in seeking the opportunities to perform OFE and be open to receiving corrective feedback. The senior year is the time to ensure that A TS are competent in providing quality health care with allowing them to render emergency medical services by assessing and managing the injury and situation. Particularly, in the head, neck, and spine and upper extremity body areas. The direct feedback and experience is important for A TS since they soon will be responsible for the proper management of the OFEs. Athletic training education programs should identify senior A TS who do not display the level of competence to independently render quality health care. The ATEP should allow more time to have supervised experiences to build the competence of the ATS. The athletic training profession can improve the overall quality of care being rendered to the active population by ensuring that the new A TC' s are more confident, prepared, and have the appropriate experiences to ensure safe health care.

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