Sports injuries can occur at any time and being prepared for those injuries along with having the ability to control the crowd can not only help the injured player physically, but it can help keep the victim at ease and ensure they get the help they need in a timely manner.
Common Sport Injuries
Sports injuries are common and often caused by overuse or direct impact. The most common sports injuries are:
- Sprains
- Bruises
- Abrasions
- Concussions
- Dehydration
In some instances, emergency situations may occur such as prolonged loss of consciousness, neck or spine injuries, eye injuries, or more fatal sports emergencies like sudden cardiac arrest. Athletes have an increased risk of sudden cardiac arrest since it is more likely to happen during exercise or physical activity.
Sudden cardiac arrest can happen when the heart develops a dangerously high heart rate, causing the heart to stop effectively pumping blood throughout the body. It also can be triggered by a condition called commotio cordis, which is due to an abnormal heart rhythm and cardiac arrest that happens immediately upon an object striking the chest directly over the heart at a very critical time during the heartbeat.
Controlling the Crowd in an Emergency
If a crowd begins to form around an injured player, it is important to keep them far enough away to not distract from the help that needs to be given. It is recommended to only keep the athlete’s parents, an athletic trainer, and the coach nearby to help. This allows everyone to be heard and perform the necessary responsibilities to help the injured player.
How to Help in an Emergency at an Athletic Event
An injury can occur at any time and as a team physician, medical staff, or coach, it is recommended to travel with a portable AED, so you are prepared to help in any situation no matter where it may be.
Having the ability to transport your AED is the first step in being emergency prepared for a sporting event. Heartsmart offers both AED “on the go” value packages and AED carrying cases if you already have an AED.
The next step is making sure your coaches, referees, players, and sports volunteers have the tools they need when up against a cardiac emergency. Heartsmart can help | Shop AED value packages today.
References
1 Maron, B. J., & Estes III, M. (2010, June 10). Commotio Cordis. New England Journal of Medicine. Retrieved January 31, 2023, from https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmra0910111
DISCLAIMER: Information and resources found on the Heartsmart website/blog is intended to educate, inform, and motivate readers to make their health and wellness decisions after consulting with their healthcare provider. The authors are not healthcare providers. No information on this site should be used to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure any disease or condition.