Athletic Training Ch 1 Notes
I. The Athletic Trainer
A healthcare professional concerned with the well-being of the physically active; generally assumes responsibility for overseeing the total healthcare for the athlete.
Provides quality healthcare through a knowledge base that includes:
emergency care
kinesiology, anatomy, physiology
orthopedic and general medical assessment
pharmacology
psychology
biomechanics
therapeutic modalities, rehabilitation
nutrition
Origins and evolution:
Emerged in the late 19th century with the first intercollegiate/interscholastic athletes in the US.
Early athletic trainers possessed no formal technical knowledge; techniques would be considered “home remedies” today.
Today, athletic trainers typically possess a Master of Science degree from an accredited university with evidence-based coursework, clinical hours, and successful completion of the BOC Examination.
Professionalization and standards:
National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) established in 1950 in Kansas City; goal to advance the profession.
NATA standards currently establish the standard of care and knowledge for athletic trainers and students.
NATA mission: “To enhance the quality of health care provided by certified athletic trainers and to advance the athletic training profession.”
NATA is a membership body open to individuals concerned with advancing the profession; global membership > .
Annual national convention showcases latest research and products (Networking).
State-level governance (e.g., West Virginia Athletic Trainers' Association, WVATA).
Website: www.nata.org; NATABOC administers certification exams.
Other important organizations and their roles:
They produce position statements based on current research to help establish guidelines and legal standards (commission, omission, standard of care).
NCAA – National Collegiate Athletic Association
ACSM – American College of Sports Medicine
AAFP – American Academy of Family Physicians
NSCA – National Strength and Conditioning Association; certifications include:
NASM – National Academy of Sports Medicine; PES certification (Performance Enhancement Specialist) similar to CSCS
WV Board of Physical Therapy (WVBOC) – regulatory body for Athletic Trainers in WV
BOC – Board of Certifications; tests fundamental knowledge and awards the Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) credential upon passing the BOC Examination
BOC also administers continuing education requirements for ATCs
Continuing Education for ATCs:
50 CEUs every ; at least must be based on Evidence-Based Practice (EBP).
Summary: The profession is grounded in a broad knowledge base, standardized certification, ongoing education, and a network of professional associations and regulatory bodies that guide practice, ethics, and professional development.
II. Domains and Competencies of a Certified Athletic Trainer (Duties of an ATC)
I. Prevention of Athletic Injuries
A. PPE/Medical History on file for every athlete.
B. Create the safest competitive environment to minimize injury risk; may include tasks not typically thought to belong to an ATC (e.g., picking up trash, removing rocks or objects) if they pose potential danger to the athlete.
C. Minimize risk of injury by:
1) Appropriate training and conditioning of the athlete (health-related and sport-specific fitness components)
2) Monitoring the environment (heat, pollution, electrical storms)
3) Selecting properly fitting and maintaining protective equipment
4) Proper nutrition; metaphor: the body is like a car—no fuel means it won’t run
5) Using medications properly and being aware of potential side effects of OTC and prescription meds; discourage substance abuse
D. Note: Liability concerns emphasize purchasing high-quality equipment and maintaining it per manufacturers’ guidelines (example: NOCSAE sticker on a helmet); do not modify equipment
II. Recognition, Evaluation, and Assessment of Injuries
A. Obtain the individual’s history via observation, interview, and/or review of relevant records to screen for existing problems; conduct a physical examination before participation
B. Use visual and palpation techniques to determine type and extent of injury/illness
C. Use appropriate tests (e.g., ROM, special tests, neurological tests) to determine type and extent
D. Formulate a professional medical opinion by interpreting signs, symptoms, and predisposing factors to determine the appropriate course of action
E. Educate the individual about the clinical evaluation to promote compliance with care; example: Tendinitis may develop if injury is not treated properly after initial injury
Example given: Possible 1-degree inversion ankle sprain; Stay and Play or Load and GO decision framework
III. Immediate Care of Injuries
A. Coordinate care by communicating assessment findings to pertinent individuals
B. Apply immediate and emergency care procedures to prevent exacerbation and reduce morbidity/mortality risk
C. Implement appropriate referral strategies while stabilizing and/or preventing exacerbation of conditions beyond ATC scope
Note: Good Samaritan Law considerations apply to emergency actions; RICES (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, Support) principles are commonly referenced in initial care
IV. Treatment, Rehabilitation, and Reconditioning of the Athlete
A. Administer therapeutic and conditioning exercises using appropriate techniques to aid recovery and restore function
B. Administer therapeutic modalities as adjuncts to healing, chosen based on the athlete’s recovery phase
C. Apply braces, splints, or other assistive devices according to best practices to protect injuries and optimize function
D. Administer treatment for injury using appropriate methods to support protection, recovery, and functional restoration
V. Health Care Administration
A. Ensure all athletes have a PPE and medical history on file in the Head Athletic Trainer’s office
B. Ensure all necessary paperwork is completed (NCAA forms, PPE, Medical History, Sickle Cell, Insurance info, concussion forms, etc.)
C. Budget management: current and prior years (equipment and supplies)
D. Maintain records and documentation that comply with organizational, association, and regulatory standards for quality of care, program validation, and evidence-based interventions (HOPS, SOAP notes – must be specific and consistent)
E. Supervising personnel: oversee other ATCs and/or student athletic trainers (preceptor role)
VI. Professional Development and Responsibility
A. Continuing Education: every ; at least must be Evidence-Based Practice (EBP)
B. Stay current with the latest research and technology; act as an educator to athletes, coaches, parents, and fellow professionals
C. Maintain currency with CPR/AED/First Aid certification
III. Personal Qualities of the Athletic Trainer
1. Stamina and adaptability (risk of burnout; burnout defined as exhaustion and disinterest toward work)
2. Empathy (ability to understand and share the feelings of others; put yourself in their shoes)
3. Sense of humor
4. Communication (oral and written)
5. Intellectual curiosity (AT is dynamic; must always be a student; SPMD/AT is dynamic)
6. Ethical practice (act reasonably and prudently)
7. Professional memberships (NATA and WVATA)
IV. The Sports Medicine Team
The primary team consists of the Coach, the Athletic Trainer (ATC), and the Team Physician.
1. The Team Physician
ATCs work under the supervision of physicians who direct the total health care of the athlete.
Physicians’ responsibilities include:
compiling medical histories
diagnosing injuries
deciding on disqualification and return-to-play status
attending practices and games (often limited by schedules)
Specialties involved in sports medicine may include:
Orthopedist (musculoskeletal)
Neurologist (nervous system)
Internist (internal medicine)
Ophthalmologist (eye injuries)
Optometrist (glasses/contacts)
Pediatrician (children and adolescents)
Psychiatrist (mental health)
Dentist (teeth)
Podiatrist (feet)
Physical Therapist (treatment and rehab)
2. The Coach
Directly responsible for injury prevention by ensuring athletes complete a preventative conditioning program.
Ensure equipment is high quality, properly fitted, and maintained.
Should have fundamental knowledge of common sport injuries.
Must be able to apply first aid, especially for head and spinal injuries.
All coaches must be CPR/AED certified.
3. The Athletic Trainer
The ATC is the professional who manages the athlete's rehabilitation from injury onset through full, unrestricted return to practice or competition.
4. Support Personnel (TEAM APPROACH)
Nurses
School Health Services
Dentist
Podiatrist
Physician's Assistant (PA)
Strength and Conditioning Specialist
Physical Therapist
Sport Psychologist
Nutritionist
EMS (Emergency Medical Services)
Chiropractor
Equipment Personnel
Referees
Physician
Biomechanist
Exercise Physiologist
Massage Therapist
Additional notes and connections
The content emphasizes a systems and team approach to sports health, with clear delineations of roles, responsibilities, and ethical/legal considerations.
Emphasis on evidence-based practice (EBP) across CEUs and continuing education; aligns with modern professional expectations.
Practical examples include decisions like Stay and Play vs. Load and GO for ankle injuries and the use of NOCSAE standards for equipment safety.
The evolution from informal, home-remedy techniques to formally educated, credentialed professionals reflects broader trends in healthcare professionalization and standard of care.
The structure aligns with foundational principles: prevention first, proper assessment, appropriate care, rehab, administration and documentation, ongoing professional development, and teamwork across the sports medicine spectrum.
, with at least being ; membership and standards organizations guide practice and ethics; the BOC Examination certifies ATCs.
Education for an Athletic Trainer
In , the American Medical Association (AMA) officially recognized Athletic Trainers (ATs) as allied healthcare providers.
This recognition was crucial as it facilitated the accreditation of educational programs for ATs.
The Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE) is the organization responsible for granting accreditation to these programs.
CAATE bases its accreditation decisions on various factors including the qualifications of staff, the adequacy of facilities, the availability of university resources, and the overall structure of the program.
Accreditation can be granted for different durations: year, years, or years.
Admission to the Athletic Training Program
Acceptance into an Athletic Training Program (ATP) is highly competitive and is not guaranteed for all applicants.
Prospective students must meet several minimum criteria to be considered for admission:
Admission to Marshall University (or equivalent institution).
Declaration of Athletic Training as a major, including any specific area of emphasis.
An overall minimum cumulative GPA of .
Formal application to the Athletic Training Program.
All application materials are submitted to a centralized application system known as ATCAS.
Achieving a letter grade of "C" or better in all required pre-requisite athletic training coursework, which typically includes:
Human Anatomy
Human Physiology
Nutrition
Exercise Physiology
Medical Terminology
Introduction to Athletic Training or an equivalent course
Personal Health/Wellness
First Aid & CPR (applicants must provide evidence of appropriate certifications)
Kinesiology/Biomechanics
General Psychology
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Sociology, or equivalent courses
Statistics
Completion of all required Marshall University (MU) or West Virginia State University (WVSU) core courses.
Completion of a minimum of credit hours.
Submission of all necessary documents as part of the application.
Completion of Directed Observation Clinical Experience requirements as specifically outlined by the Marshall University ATP.
A successful interview with program faculty.
The interview process includes specific scoring and questions.
Demonstrated ability to meet the Technical Standards of Admission, which must be documented by a licensed physician.
Important Notices When Applying
Travel Requirements:
The Athletic Training Program utilizes multiple clinical sites located within and around the Huntington Metro area, which encompasses parts of West Virginia, Kentucky, and Ohio (Tri-State area).
Some of these clinical agencies are situated outside the immediate campus vicinity, requiring drive times of up to minutes.
Students are solely responsible for arranging their own transportation to all assigned clinical sites throughout their enrollment in the program.
Clinical experiences may occur at any time of day and/or any day of the week, requiring student flexibility.
Health Form and Immunizations:
As a final step in the application process, students must submit proof of a recent physical examination.
A record of immunizations is also required, which must include proof of Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) inoculation.
Applicants must also provide documentation of a negative Tuberculosis (TB) skin test conducted within the last months.
The physical examination must include documentation from a licensed physician affirming the student's ability to meet the CAATE Technical Standards.
Clinical sites mayimpose additional immunization requirements at any point during the curriculum, and students are responsible for providing the necessary documentation.
Required Transcripts:
Applicants who have previously attended or are currently attending another university must provide official transcripts to both Marshall University (or the accepting university) and the ATP.
These transcripts must cover all semesters attended at previous institutions, particularly if courses from these institutions are being used to satisfy prerequisite requirements.
CPR and AED Certification:
Students must provide proof of current certification in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) and Automated External Defibrillator (AED) for the Professional Rescuer or Healthcare Provider.
Only certifications from the American Red Cross or American Heart Association are accepted.
These certifications are a mandatory part of the ATP application and must be maintained as current throughout the student's matriculation in the program.
Master of Science – Athletic Training
The Master of Science in Athletic Training program is structured using either a or model.
Under these structures, students spend their initial three or four years at Marshall University (or WVSU) completing required university core courses.
In addition to core courses, students simultaneously complete the prerequisite courses necessary for application to the ATP, which include:
Anatomy
Physiology
Biology
Physics
Chemistry
Kinesiology
Exercise Physiology
Nutrition
Personal Health/Wellness
Medical Terminology
Statistics
First Aid & CPR
Sociology
Introduction to Athletic Training
After this initial period (three or four years) and assuming all ATP admission requirements are met, Athletic Training majors then formally apply to the Professional Master of Science in Athletic Training Program.
Once admitted, students undergo two additional years to complete all required ATP coursework and clinical requirements.
Upon successful completion, students graduate with a Master's degree, typically within a total timeframe of years (for the structure).
The Master of Science in Athletic Training Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education (CAATE).
Graduation from a CAATE-accredited program is a mandatory requirement to be eligible to sit for the Board of Certification (BOC) Examination.
The BOC Examination
Upon graduation from a CAATE-accredited program, candidates are eligible to sit for the Board of Certification Exam.
Candidates may also take the exam prior to their official graduation, provided they are in their final semester of the program.
In such cases, the candidate must actively anticipate graduating, and this anticipation must be confirmed by the Athletic Training Educational Program Chair.
The examination itself comprises approximately questions.
These questions cover the entirety of Athletic Training material addressed throughout the program, as outlined in specific domains and competencies.
Candidates are allotted hours to complete the examination.
If a candidate achieves a passing score on the BOC exam, they become eligible for certification.
Certification is granted after the BOC receives their current CPR/AED information and official transcripts.
All Certified Athletic Trainers (ATCs) are mandated to complete Continuing Education Requirements (CEUs) to maintain their ATC credential.
The requirement is CEUs every years.
CEUs can be earned through various avenues, including:
Advanced training, such as further university education relevant to Athletic Training or healthcare.
Obtaining further professional certifications (e.g., Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist - CSCS, Performance Enhancement Specialist - PES, Corrective Exercise Specialist - CES, etc.).
Attending professional conferences at the state, district, and national levels.
Publishing research in relevant academic journals.
Actively serving on a professional committee.
Attending BOC-approved courses or lectures, which may be held online, at conferences, or as specific lectures across the country.
State Regulation of the Athletic Trainer
Each individual state possesses the authority to regulate Athletic Trainers within its borders as it deems appropriate.
For instance, in West Virginia (WV), all practicing ATs are currently required to register with the Board of Physical Therapy.
Employment Settings for the Athletic Trainer
The comprehensive education received by Athletic Trainers equips them with skills applicable across a wide array of employment settings:
Secondary Schools: This includes high schools, where ATs may serve as both teachers and team Athletic Trainers.
School Districts: ATs can be employed directly by school districts to cover multiple schools or provide district-wide services.
Colleges and Universities: Roles include professors (teaching and practicing AT), graduate assistants, or ATs contracted through the university to cover secondary schools or smaller university programs.
Professional Teams: ATs work with major professional sports organizations such as the NFL, MLB, NBA, WNBA, NHL, and others.
Sports Medicine Clinics: Examples include facilities like CAMC Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Center.
Performance Enhancement Facilities: These centers focus on optimizing athletic performance, such as Potential Plus or A Game.
Rehabilitation Clinics: ATs provide services in various rehabilitation settings, including Dynamic PT, Medcare PT, and Elk Valley PT.
Military: ATs are employed to provide care for service members.
Physician Extender: ATs work alongside physicians, extending their capacity to provide patient care.
Research: Opportunities exist for ATs to engage in scientific inquiry and contribute to the body of knowledge in sports medicine.
Administrator: ATs can hold leadership positions such as university department chairs or athletic training program chairs.
Industrial Settings: For example, companies like Boeing hire ATs to provide rehabilitation services for employees.
This approach helps prevent worker's compensation claims by facilitating employee recovery while allowing them to continue working, offering equivalent treatment at a lower cost to the employer.