DPT 865 – Neurological Physical Therapy III Guided Notes – Week 6: Concussion CPG

These flashcards cover key concepts related to concussion diagnosis and management as discussed in the DPT 865 course notes.

What are the three things that physical therapists should document when screening an individual after a potential concussion?

1. Symptoms experienced by the patient. 2. The mechanism of injury. 3. The individual's clinical history.

Why must physical therapists screen patients who have experienced a potential concussive event for emergency conditions?

To identify any immediate emergency medical needs that may arise from the injury.

What are three indications for emergency medical need following a potential concussive event?

1. Loss of consciousness. 2. Severe headache or worsening symptoms. 3. Repeated vomiting.

What is the definition of a concussion according to Figure 1 in the concussion CPG?

A concussion is defined as a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain, induced by traumatic biomechanical forces.

True or False: Physical therapists should evaluate individuals for concussion symptoms only if already diagnosed after a concussive event.

False; they should evaluate individuals with signs/symptoms regardless of diagnosis.

Why are the examination and assessment procedures described in Figure 2 of the CPG vague?

Due to variability in symptoms and individual patient responses to concussive injuries.

Which systems should be further evaluated during a physical therapy examination for a patient with dizziness and headache after a concussive event?

Vestibular system and neurological system.

Which part of the spine, although rated 'F', should be evaluated to promote symptom relief for high level neck pain?

The cervical spine.

What are the recommended cervical musculoskeletal tests following concussion according to the CPG?

1. Cervical flexion-rotation test. 2. Active range of motion. 3. Spurling's test. 4. Neck disability index. 5. Manual muscle testing.

What should definitely be assessed in regards to vestibulo-oculomotor impairments following a concussive event?

Eye movements and visual tracking.

Which two vitals should be assessed after a concussive event?

1. Blood pressure. 2. Heart rate.

When should a symptom-guided, graded exercise tolerance test be administered following a concussive event?

After the patient is symptom-free at rest.

What is an optional modality for an exercise tolerance test if someone cannot tolerate a treadmill?

Buffalo concussion bike test

Clinical judgement should be used to evaluate motor function impairments based on which factors?

Patient’s age and physical condition, and will provide insight into current functional levels relative to baseline levels.

Which outcome measure should be utilized if a patient reports headache as a symptom following a concussive event?

The Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain.

What should be stressed to patients and family following a concussive event?

The importance of rest and gradual return to activities.

What should patients and caregivers be educated on following a concussive event?

Recognizing symptoms of concussion and the importance of follow-up care.

True or False: Physical therapists should follow standardized treatment protocols for individuals who have sustained a concussion.

False; treatment should be individualized based on the patient.

If indicated, what should physical therapists do regarding referrals for treatment of specific impairments?

Refer to appropriate providers.

What treatment may be implemented for cervical and thoracic spine dysfunction following a concussive event?

Manual therapy.

What approach should be taken for treating BPPV determined to be a post concussion impairment?

Use the Dix-Hallpike maneuver.

What type of program may be beneficial for treating vertigo or motion sensitivity deficits following a concussion?

A habituation program.

What should be considered when implementing an aerobic exercise program for patients who have experienced a concussion?

The patient's tolerance and symptom response to exercise.

Which motor function impairments should be addressed with appropriate interventions following a concussion?

Balance, coordination, and strength deficits.

How might these motor function impairments be related to the ICF model?

They reflect the relationship between health conditions, activity limitations, and participation restrictions.