Date of Award

Fall 12-1-2007

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Applied Health Science

First Advisor

Shiaw-Fen Ferng

Second Advisor

Portia Plummer

Third Advisor

Jolynn S. Kuhlman

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is to assess various aspects of athletic health care being provided to athletes in high risk sports in Indiana and the personnel providing this care relative to school enrollment size in comparison to the recent recommendations published by the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) regarding appropriate medical care for secondary school-aged athletes. Design and Settings: Based on a literature review, a 34 item web based survey for athletic directors (ADs) and a 33 item web based survey for identified head coaches were developed and distributed to 406 Indiana High School ADs. The survey instruments were tested for validity and reliability. Measurements: Descriptive statistics and analysis of variance were utilized to delineate the responses relative to the information sought. Statistical significance level (a) was set at 0.05. Results: 118 (30%) AD surveys and 61 head coach surveys were received. Overall, 83 high schools (70%) indicated there were one or more certified athletic trainers (ATCs) on staff. Overall, 53% of the respondents did not require any certifications (first aid, CPR, AED) of their coaches. Fifty-two percent of the schools had one or more designated team physicians. Significant findings compared to school enrollment were ATCs, team physicians, modalities to treat athletic injuries, monies spent on ATCs and athletic training supplies. This study found less than 80% compliance when compared to the NAT A recommendations in ten areas. The coaches' survey revealed that qualified IV personnel are available at competitions, a majority ofthe coaches had basic medical equipment available for practices and games and appropriate procedures were followed for allowing an injured athlete to return to activity. Conclusions: Minimum requirements need to be implemented and enforced for all athletic activities to ensure that high school athletes in Indiana are receiving appropriate athletic health care.

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