AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY SPORTS MEDICINE 2014-2015

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AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY SPORTS MEDICINE

2014-2015 POLICIES & PROCEDURES

IRELIAM “COOKIE” GUADALUPE, MS, ATC, PES

MERRITT HENDERSON, MS, ATC KURT “OTTO” BUCHHOLZ, MS, ATC, PES

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Table of Contents Important Numbers ................................................................................................................ 3

Reporting Injury and Illness ................................................................................................ 4 Supplements and Prescriptions ......................................................................................... 5

Drugs and Alcohol ............................................................................................................... 5-‐9

Guidelines for Lightning…………………………………………………… .................................. 10 Guidelines for Heat Illness .......................................................................................... 11-‐12

Hydration Guidelines .......................................................................................................... 12 General Sickness ................................................................................................................... 13

MRSA ................................................................................................................................... 14-‐15

Athletic Insurance Policy ............................................................................................. 16-‐20 Traveling Without An Athletic Trainer ......................................................................... 21

Catastrophic Incident Guidelines .............................................................................. 22-‐23

Concussion Management ............................................................................................. 24-‐26 Emergency Action Plan – Tom Golisano Field House ............................................... 27

Emergency Action Plan – Field House -‐ Weight Room ............................................. 28 Emergency Action Plan – AMU Football Field ............................................................. 29

Emergency Action Plan – Bowies Ballpark (Baseball) ............................................. 30

Emergency Action Plan – AMU Softball Field .............................................................. 31 Emergency Action Plan – AMU Tennis Complex ......................................................... 32

Emergency Action Plan – North Park (Soccer, Lacrosse) ........................................ 33

Emergency Action Plan – Gyrene Field (Soccer, Lacrosse) ..................................... 34

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Important Numbers ON-CAMPUS EMERGENCY: 9 - 911 AMU Security Cell: 239-280-6289 Or Ext. 6289 *All campus land-line phones require the dialing of “9” in order to dial an outside line. SPORTS MEDICINE CONTACT INFORMATION AMU Athletic Training Room Number: 239-304-7865 Ireliam “Cookie” Guadalupe, MS, ATC, PES Head Athletic Trainer Cell: 239-340-9111 Email: [email protected] Merritt Henderson, MS, ATC Athletic Trainer Cell: 772-370-3897 Email: [email protected] Kurt “Otto” Buchholz, MS, ATC, PES Athletic Trainer Cell: 978-866-6086 Email: [email protected] COLLIER COUNTY SHERIFF The Collier County Sheriff’s Office works closely with Ave Maria University and the town of Ave Maria, FL to help provide for a safe and healthy environment for students and residents. COLLIER COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE NUMBERS Non- Emergency: 239-252-9300 Cellular number for TIPS: *CCSO Communications Center: 239-252-9300 Duty Officer: 239-793-9319 Switchboard Operator: 239-774-4434 PHONE LOCATIONS ON CAMPUS Yellow Emergency phones are located outside of all buildings on campus. They are primarily used for access into buildings. Also located throughout campus are blue emergency phones which should be used for emergency situations when Collier County Police are immediately needed

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Reporting Injury and Illness The Ave Maria University certified athletic trainers work to provide the highest quality sports medicine services to all AMU student-athletes. All intercollegiate athletic injuries and illnesses will be evaluated by a certified athletic trainer and treated appropriately during the scheduled athletic training room hours. The athletic training room hours are 9:00am-7:00pm Monday- Friday during the academic school year. Weekend and holiday hours vary based on varsity competition schedule. Morning athletic training room hours are by appointment only for treatment and rehabilitation. Please contact the athletic training staff if you will be late or unable to attend your scheduled rehab time. All student-athletes with acute injuries or illnesses should report to the athletic training room within 24 hours. If an emergency should occur prior to or after the athletic training room hours, contact the first responder unit by dialing 8-911 from a campus phone. If an athlete is treated through the Emergency Department or by any other physician, then the athlete must follow up with an Ave Maria University athletic trainer to determine medical clearance. If a student athlete is sick or injured while on the road with a varsity team, the coach should advise them to report to the athletic training room upon return and notify the sports medicine staff. Referral Procedure Emergency Room: Please notify the AMU sports medicine staff if any student-athlete needs to visit an emergency room or had to visit an emergency room in regards to an athletics related injury. Physician Referral: Referrals should be coordinated through the sports medicine staff. This will ensure the student athlete is seen by the appropriate physician in an expeditious manner. Also, it ensures the treatment plan and participation status of the student athlete is documented and made clear to coaching staff. *Please note all student-athletes must be evaluated by the sports medicine staff and a referral report is written prior to scheduling an appointment. Please do not have athletes call or email sports medicine staff members for appointments. They should report to the athletic training room. Payment Responsibility: Athletes and their families are responsible for medical costs not covered through primary and/or secondary insurance. Patient responsibility costs are just that- “patient responsibility”. A payment arrangement must be made to ensure all bills are paid in a timely manner. Unpaid bills and failure to make payment arrangements will result in loss of practice and game eligibility.

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Supplements and Prescriptions NCAA Position: Banned Substances and Nutritional Supplements Many nutritional/dietary supplements contain NCAA banned substances. In addition, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not strictly regulate the supplement industry; therefore, purity and safety of nutritional/dietary supplements cannot be guaranteed. Impure supplements may lead to a positive NCAA drug test. THE USE OF SUPPLEMENTS IS AT THE STUDENT-ATHLETES OWN RISK. Student-athletes with questions regarding NCAA-banned substances should ask their certified athletic trainer or contact the Resource Exchange Center (REC) at http://www.drugfreesport.com/services/rec-overview.asp or they can call 1-816-474-8655, Ext. 129. Student-athletes should not look to sales people or dietary supplement manufacturers for information regarding banned substances. Prescription Medication Student-athletes should report all prescription medications to the certified athletic trainer as soon as they are able. It is required that the certified athletic training staff has these records in their file. DRUGS AND ALCOHOL The Athletic Department recognizes the use of alcohol and illegal drugs as a significant problem on college campuses and for many student-athletes. Their use results in negative effects on behavior, relationships, academic performance, and the overall learning environment. The use and misuse of these substances also affects athletic performance and team morale. Although we realize that problems with alcohol and other drugs are not confined to student-athletes, they are of special concern to us because of the high visibility and additional social pressures athletes often face as representatives of our institution. ALCOHOL POLICY Student-athletes must comply with all applicable laws and rules related to alcohol. Violations of this policy include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Possession or consumption of alcohol by a student-athlete under the legal age, as mandated by Florida law;

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• Providing alcohol to a person under the legal age, as mandated by Florida law; • Charged misdemeanor or felony alcohol-related offense; • Alcohol related disturbances or conflicts either on or off campus.

The penalty for violating the alcohol policy will be determined by the student-athletes respective coach. DRUG POLICY Student-athletes must comply with applicable laws and rules related to controlled substances. Substance abuse includes but is not limited to the following and is prohibited: marijuana, cocaine, heroin, medical marijuana, prescription drugs etc. In the best interests of student-athletes, coaches, staff and the University, “performance enhancing” drugs (steroids, human growth hormones etc.) are also prohibited. If there are questions or concerns regarding the use of any drug or medication, please contact the Athletic Department prior to using such substance. Please visit the NAIA website at www.naia.org for the NAIA’s substance abuse policy and program. For further information regarding the types of “street” and “performance enhancing” drugs commonly banned, please visit the NCAA website at www.ncaa.org. All student-athletes are required to sign a Drug Testing Consent Form before being allowed to participate in athletics at the University. This form allows the Director of Athletics, Assistant Director of Athletics, Director of Sports Medicine, or Head Coach to request that an athlete be tested for substance abuse at any time during the school year for the illegal or banned drugs included on the NCAA banned drug list. During each academic year, the Athletic Department reserves the right to randomly select student-athletes from any team for drug testing. The University may also randomly drug test during the academic year. Student-athletes chosen for random drug testing will be notified by their respective coach and must report to the designated test site at the assigned time. The student-athlete will be given 24-48 hours notice that they will be tested. Once notified the student athlete is to report to the athletic training room and sign a consent form acknowledging that they have been notified of being randomly selected for drug testing. On the day of drug testing the student must provide their student ID, prescriptions for any medications that they student-athlete is on and verify his/her presence, by signature, to the test administrator. If a staff member is suspicious of a student-athletes use or potential use of a controlled substance and wants to initiate a test, the staff member must: (1) provide a written communication outlining the basis for suspicion and submit the letter to the Director of

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Athletics; and (2) meet with the Director of Athletics to discuss whether further investigation or other intervention is appropriate. The Director of Athletics will determine whether to solicit a drug test from the student-athlete. Students selected for “suspicion based” drug testing will follow the same procedure of the random drug testing procedure. Random or suspicion testing will involve a urine sample. The university reserves to itself the right to collect blood, oral fluid, or hair follicle samples to determine compliance with this policy. The University will pay for all tests. The submission of a compromised urine sample, as determined by the test administrator, is strictly prohibited and will be determined to be a positive result. An athlete who refuses to take a drug test when requested or fails to show up on time for a scheduled drug test will be declared ineligible to participate in all athletics at the University until a specimen is collected and may be subject to further discipline. Once an athlete has submitted a specimen, he/she will remain eligible to participate in athletics at the University until the results of the drug test are secured by the Athletic Department. All results are confidential, except as otherwise required by law, and will remain in student-athletes’ permanent file, except as otherwise required by law or the Director of Sports Medicine. The only people who will be contacted about the results of the drug test will be the athlete/donor, the Director of Sports Medicine, the head coach of the specific sport, Director of Athletics and the Assistant Director of Athletics. 1) Negative Results: The athlete will be contacted by the Athletic Department about the results and remain eligible to participate in athletics at the University. The results of the test will be shared with the athlete/donor, the Director of Sports Medicine, the head coach of the specific sport, the Director of Athletics and the Assistant Director of Athletics. Even if an athlete tests negative for a drug test, he/she may be tested again during the academic year. 2) Positive Results: If a student tests positive, the following steps will be followed:

a. The same specimen will be sent to LabCorp/Quest Diagnostics for confirmation testing. Confirmation testing may take up to 72-96 hours. The findings will be reported to Director of Sports Medicine. The Director of Sports Medicine will then notify the Athletic Director and Assistant Athletic Director.

b. A Medical Review officer will review any positive tests after the Confirmation Testing Process. A Medical Review Officer (MRO) is a person who is a licensed physician and who is responsible for receiving and reviewing laboratory results generated by a college’s drug testing program and evaluating medical

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explanations for certain drug test results. c. The student-athlete will be deemed ineligible to participate in his/her given sport

until results are received from the Confirmation Test and Medical Review Officer. d. The athlete will be notified in person of his/her results following the Director of

Athletics’ receipt of the results from the confirmation test and appropriate Medical Review.

e. Results from the Confirmation Test and Medical Review Officer will be deemed final and sanctions will be imposed as deemed appropriate by the Director of Athletics.

f. If results are negative from the Confirmation Test and Medical Review, the drug test will be considered negative. Despite the negative result, the student-athlete may be subject to additional tests during the academic year.

Following are minimum sanctions that may be imposed by the Athletic Department for any violation of this drug policy. The University and the Director of Athletics may impose additional sanctions. Disciplinary actions designated by Athletic Department may be separate from actions taken by other involved departments within the university. NOTE: The following violations may be treated by the Athletic Department as a second offense violation, even if it is the student-athlete’s first offense: 1) First Offense: the student-athlete will adhere to all the below listed consequences:

a. A meeting will be scheduled between student-athlete, and the Director of Athletics, Assistant Director of Athletics and head coach of sport.

b. The student-athlete will be suspended from the athletic program for 30% of the scheduled dates rounded up to the nearest whole number. The suspension will carry over to next season if applicable. If the student-athlete is a dual sport athlete, the suspension will carry over to next sport.

c. Referral to professional evaluation and/or rehabilitation or treatment as selected by the University, at the student’s own expense (such evaluation and/or rehabilitation or treatment to be completed before participating in the chosen sport).

d. Complete 5 hours of community service (community service to be determined by Director of Athletics and/or Assistant Director of Athletics).

2) Second offense: the student-athlete will adhere to all the below listed consequences:


b. Immediate dismissal from the athletic team. c. Student must complete professional evaluation and/or rehabilitation or treatment

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at the student’s own expense before reconsideration of reinstatement (such evaluation and/or rehabilitation or treatment to be completed before participating in the chosen sport);

d. Complete 10 hours of community service to be completed prior to applying for reinstatement. (community service to be determined by Director of Athletics and/ or Assistant Director of Athletics)

e. Prohibition of petitioning the Athletic Department for reinstatement for one full calendar year from date of dismissal.

f. Requirement that the student-athlete must continue his/her education at the University throughout suspension to be considered for reinstatement.

3) Third offense: the student-athlete will adhere to all the below listed consequences:


b. Dismissed indefinitely as AMU athlete. ** If at any point the student-athlete challenges the result of the drug test, they may pay for a retest at the cost of the student-athlete. **

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Guidelines for Lightning Ave Maria Sports Medicine will use the following methods to monitor lighting in accordance to the NCAA and NATA recommendations regarding lightning safety: A SkyScan Lightning detector and additional mobile applications that signify how many miles lightning is detected. Flash to Bang Method: The number of seconds from lightning to thunder divided by 5=how many miles away lightning is. 40 seconds or less between a flash of thunder and a bang of thunder constitutes lightning within 8 miles and play should be suspended. Resume play: 30 minutes after the last lightning strike within 8 miles. DO NOT stand near or under a tall tree or object. DO NOT stand near a metal object such as a fence or bleachers. Athletes wearing metal spikes should remove shoes. DO NOT stand near a pool of water. DO NOT be the highest object on an open field. DO NOT lie down on the ground. DO Instead, crouch low with two feet in contact with the ground. DO NOT take refuge in a shower facility. If there is no other shelter, DO take cover in an automobile (not a convertible), but DO NOT touch the sides of the car. Sport Specific Evacuation Locations Football: Head to Tom Golisano Fieldhouse Tennis: Evacuate to the Tom Golisano Fieldhouse or car Soccer (North Park): Evacuate to the you car or the concession stand by the playground Soccer (Gyrene Field): Evacuate to the Tom Golisano Fieldhouse or car Softball: Evacuate to the Tom Golisano Fieldhouse or your car Baseball: Evacuate to Tom Golisano Fieldhouse or car Golf: Clubhouse, restroom, ditch without water Women’s Lacrosse (North Park): Evacuate to the you car or the concession stand by the playground Women’s Lacrosse (Gyrene Field): Evacuate to the Tom Golisano Fieldhouse or car Away Contest: Athletic trainer or head coach should find out procedure from host athletic trainer

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Guidelines for Heat Illness 1. Heat Cramps: mildest form of heat injury Signs and Symptoms Muscle cramps Twitching Spasms *If muscle cramps, twitching or spasm occurs above the waist and an athletic trainer is not present, then call 911. Call for EMS in the case of heat exhaustion if athlete refuses water, vomits, or starts to lose consciousness. 2. Heat Exhaustion Signs and Symptoms Skin is moist, cool, pale, or flushed - dry tongue / mouth Lack of coordination - headache Impaired mental state - excessive thirst Muscle cramps, twitching or spasm - weakness Nausea, abdominal cramps - dizziness Increased body temperature *If muscle cramps, twitching or spasm occurs above the waist and an athletic trainer is not present, then call 911. Call for EMS in the case of heat exhaustion if athlete refuses water, vomits, or starts to lose consciousness. 3. Heat Stroke Signs and Symptoms Red, hot and shiny skin - rapid, weak pulse Confusion, disorientation -w loss of consciousness Rapid shallow breathing *If muscle cramps, twitching or spasm occurs above the waist and an athletic trainer is not present, then call 911. Call for EMS in the case of heat exhaustion if athlete refuses water, vomits, or starts to lose consciousness.

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Treatment Contact the athletic training staff for assistance If athlete is conscious, give him or her cold water to drink Get the athlete out of the heat and direct sunlight and into a cooler environment Loosen tight clothing and discreetly remove excess clothing Apply cool, wet towels to the skin, place ice bags on groin, neck, top of the feet and armpits Fan the athlete HEAT STROKE IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, EMS SHOULD BE CALLED IMMEDIATELY

Hydration Guidelines The National Athletic Trainer’s Association has issued a position statement that outlines their recommendations for helping maintain adequate hydration levels. Their recommendations are as follows: Pre-Event/Game 2-3 hours before match: consume 17-20 oz. fluid. 10-15 minutes before match (after warm-up): consume 7-10 oz. fluid. During Game Consume 28-40 oz. of fluid for every hour of play. Ideally, 7-10 oz. every 10-15 minutes. After Game Body’s ability to replace lost water and carbohydrates is maximized during the first 2 hours after match. Recommended 20-24 oz. for every pound of body weight lost. These recommendations are assuming that the athlete is consuming the needed 80-96 oz. (10-12 cups) of fluid per day, every day. If this does not occur, the player will head into the game with less than ideal hydration level.

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General Sickness In the case that an athlete has a general sickness that may need a prescription antibiotic from a physician, the athlete is recommended to come to the AMU athletic training room to be properly referred to the right physician. Ave Maria University is currently in the process of establishing a student health center on campus. Regardless of their condition student athletes should be in contact with an AMU athletic trainer about their sickness and their return to play status. If an athlete does not feel well enough to practice/play and has not seen a physician they need to check in with the ATC to receive proper treatment. Urgent Care addresses and phone numbers: EPN Urgent Care Naples 6400 Davis Blvd Suite 103 Naples, FL 34104 (239)-775-2300 Lehigh Urgent Care 2718 Lee Blvd Lehigh Acres, FL 33971 (239)-303-9298 Naples Urgent Care 1713 Southwest Health Parkway Naples, FL 34109 (239)-597-8000 *Information on Ave Maria University Student Health Clinic-TBA

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MRSA WHAT IS MRSA (METHICILLIN-RESISTANT STAPHYLOCOCCUS AUREUS)? Staphylococcus aureus, often referred to simply as “staph,” are bacteria commonly carried on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Approximately 25% to 30% of the population is colonized (when bacteria are present, but not causing an infection) in the nose with staph bacteria. Sometimes, staph can cause an infection. Most of these skin infections are minor (such as pimples and boils) and can be treated without antibiotics. However, staph also can cause serious infections (such as surgical wound infections, bloodstream infections, and pneumonia). MRSA is a type of staph that is resistant to multiple different antibiotics called beta-lactams (including penicillin, methicillin, cephalexin, etc.). Approximately 1% of the population is colonized with MRSA. MRSA skin and soft tissue infections have become alarmingly common in athletes, particularly those in team sports. Often, the athlete thinks they have a bug or spider bite, because a bump enlarges, becomes firm, tender and often forms a pimple/pustule very quickly. MRSA infections can also occur in abrasions. Because of their antibiotic resistance, MRSA infections can rapidly abscess, spread and become very dangerous. If I develop a possible staph or MRSA skin infection, what can I do to help myself and prevent others from being infected? See the athletic trainer or team physician immediately: We cannot stress this enough. If you have any bump, pustule or red/warm/tender area on your skin, immediately have the area looked at by a member of the Emory Sports Medicine staff. Do not try to decide on your own if a skin problem is due to staph/MRSA or not, and do not borrow someone else’s antibiotics and try to treat yourself. When appropriate treatment (antibiotics, local care) is instituted immediately by the doctor, complications of MRSA infections can be avoided. When treatment is delayed, the consequences can be severe, for you and potentially for your teammates and coaches as well. Shower with Hibiclens: Until further notice, we would like the infected athlete to shower with Hibiclens, an antibacterial liquid soap that kills staph (doctors and nurses use it to scrub for surgery in the operating room). Lather Hibiclens onto all skin surfaces (be careful on face and around eyes), leave on for 1-2 minutes and wash off. If you develop a skin dryness problem, you can use lotion after showering. The AMU athletic training staff can supply Hibiclens.

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Cover your wounds: All wounds that are draining or have pus must be covered with clean, dry, occlusive bandages. Follow your athletic trainer’s instructions on proper care of the wound. Pus from infected wounds can contain staph and MRSA, so keeping the infection covered will help prevent the spread to others. Clean your hands: You and your teammates should wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially after changing a bandage or touching an infected wound. Do not share personal items: Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, washcloths, razors, clothing, or uniforms that may have had contact with an infected wound or bandage. Wash sheets, towels, and clothes that become soiled with water and laundry detergent. Drying clothes in a hot dryer, rather than air-drying, also helps kill bacteria in clothes. For more information about MRSA, go to: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/hip/aresist/ca_mrsa_public.htm.

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Athletic Insurance Policy Ave Maria University Athletic Insurance Policy and Procedures The NAIA provides a Catastrophic Injury Insurance Policy thru Mutual of Omaha, which covers student-athletes who are catastrophically injured while participating in covered intercollegiate athletic activities. This policy has a high deductible of $25,000.00 and is meant to supplement other insurance coverage that may reach their limits because of the catastrophic level of injury. Ave Maria University’s Insurance Policy Description Ave Maria University has purchased a basic accident insurance policy through Aetna Student Health to cover student athletes during their participation in NAIA recognized sporting activities to help cover any gaps that may arise between a primary insurance policy (required for participation), and the Catastrophic Insurance Policy provided by the NAIA. As this is an excess policy, it only covers medical costs associated with an athletic injury that are not covered by any other valid and collectible insurance. The Aetna Student Health Sports Plan is effective from 8/1/14 to 7/31/15 and has a $500 reducing deductible per covered person per injury. A reducing deductible means that if primary insurance pays toward a claim, the deductible on the secondary policy will reduce by the amount primary paid. If primary pays $500 or more toward a claim, the deductible will be satisfied on our policy. The $500 deductible is per injury. If an athlete gets injured, is released to play, and then gets injured again, there will be a $500 deductible for the second injury as well. We don’t see to many of those instances, but it does occasionally happen. Please call Director of Sports Medicine Cookie Guadalupe if you have any questions. The maximum benefits for AMU’s policy are set at $25,000.00 at which time the NAIA’s Catastrophic Insurance Policy would begin to pick up. This policy does cover most standard care for athletic injuries, but nontraditional, experimental, elective or highly specialized treatments/braces may not be covered. It is important to check with our Athletic Training staff before receiving any of these types of treatments. This policy does not provide coverage for general medical conditions/ illnesses/sickness. This policy becomes null and void if the student athlete does not adhere to Ave Maria University Policies for utilizing the secondary athletic insurance policy. These policies are listed below. Ave Maria University Policies for utilizing Ave Maria’s Secondary Athletic Insurance We would like to make you aware of our regulations with regard to insurance coverage that must be in place in order for the student athlete to participate in our athletic programs. We want to make sure both the student athlete and the parent or guardian are

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aware of the potential out of pocket expenses in the case of an injury while participating in intercollegiate athletic sanctioned activities such as practice, conditioning, and games. Injuries must occur in a NAIA sanctioned event to be covered by the school’s policy. In other words any voluntary activities such as extra weight lifting sessions, pick-up games, etc. will not be covered under this policy.

1. Each student athlete must have primary insurance coverage for athletic accident/injuries in order to participate in any Ave Maria University Athletic Program. If a student-athlete does not have primary insurance then they should be referred the athletic training staff.

a. This coverage must extend beyond emergency care. b. This insurance may be as a dependent under a parent/guardian or a

personal insurance policy. In the case where the student athlete is not currently eligible for coverage under a policy there are many sources available to obtain a compliant insurance policy. AMU athletic trainers or administrators can suggest a few acceptable insurance plans to purchase. Please contact the Athletic Training staff for assistance in the case you are unable to comply with the policy of Ave Maria University.

i. If a student athlete’s insurance coverage lapses for any reason during the academic year the student athlete will be held responsible for any bills incurred during the time frame that they were uninsured.

ii. If a student athlete’s insurance does not provide coverage for athletic injuries, the student athlete will be held responsible for bills incurred. This will also result in the student athlete being unable to participate in their respective sport until they have puchased the acceptable coverage and presented proof to the training staff.

c. All student athletes must provide the school with either a card showing the policy in force in which the student-athlete is covered or a front and back copy of the card to be kept on file by the athletic training staff.

i. If an athlete’s insurance coverage changes during the school year, the athletic training staff must be provided with a new card immediately.

ii. If this transition causes the athlete to be uninsured and the athlete continues to participate and sustains an injury, any bills incurred as a result of that injury will be the full financial responsibility of the student-athlete.

d. Student athletes should be knowledgeable about their insurance

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procedures and restrictions including but not limited to co-pays required at time of service, pre-certifications, referrals needed for specialists, etc.

i. Co-pays must be paid by the student athlete at the time of the appointment.

ii. Ave Maria University will not be held responsible if the guidelines of the student athlete’s insurance are not followed.

iii. If an athlete’s primary insurance company denies a claim because proper procedures were not followed the student athlete may be held responsible.

2. Student athletes must notify the athletic trainer of any and all injuries. a. Any medical bills incurred as a result of an injury that has not been

reported to the Athletic Training Staff will not be covered. i. If an injury occurs during a practice in which an Athletic Trainer is

not present that requires emergency care, the coach will notify the athletic trainer and the student athlete will follow up with the athletic trainer when they are able to.

ii. Treatment for the injury must begin within 90 days of onset of the injury with benefits lasting up to 104 weeks after the injury

1. No treatments will be covered after the 104 week period 3. Student athletes should make every effort to notify athletic training staff of any

and all medical care they seek outside of the athletic training facility. a. Athletes will be given a letter to take with them to providers with Ave

Maria’s insurance policy information on it. b. Athletes with medical appointments over school breaks in which they

don’t have access to the provider letter should contact the athletic training staff and we will send the letter on your behalf.

4. Student athletes should submit any bills that have not been processed through the school’s insurance policy with an Explanation of Benefits from student athlete’s primary insurance company as quickly as possible to the Head Athletic Trainer.

a. Bills submitted must be itemized bills in order for Athletic Training Department to be able to bill the insurance company. Itemized bills can be requested from the medical provider.

b. Student athlete may be required to call provider to give them permission to speak to Athletic Trainer.

c. Ave Maria University is not responsible for dealings with the athlete’s primary insurance claims. We are happy to offer advice to aid students in dealings with their primary insurance company, but ultimately this responsibility will fall on the student athlete and/or parents/guardians.

5. Athletes and their families are responsible for medical costs not covered

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through primary and/or secondary insurance. Patient responsibility costs are just that- “patient responsibility”. A payment arrangement must be made to ensure all bills are paid in a timely manner. Unpaid bills and failure to make payment arrangements will result in loss of practice and game eligibility.

6. The Ave Maria University Athletic Secondary insurance policy will not cover the primary insurance deductible. However, the Ave Maria secondary insurance policy will cover primary coinsurance amounts with restrictions as per-provider.

Tips for ensuring lowest possible out of pocket cost and least amount of hassle when dealing with medical bills incurred as a result of athletic injuries

1. Know what is covered so that you know when to have medical bills submitted to Ave Maria Athletics Secondary Insurance

2. Know your primary insurance policy procedures and report any restrictions to the athletic training staff BEFORE you sustain an injury

a. If you do not know your insurance restrictions CALL YOUR PARENTS TO FIND OUT

3. If your insurance company has in and out of network benefits, call your company prior to moving to campus to try and set up a temporary network of providers near Ave Maria University for medical care while in Ave Maria.

a. This may require student athlete to submit documentation each semester showing full-time enrollment

b. If your insurance company will not set up benefits in and around the Ave Maria/Naples, FL area, then your child is essentially uninsured and additional coverage should be purchased, otherwise you run the risk of high out of pocket cost.

4. Report all injuries to the Ave Maria University Athletic Training Staff 5. Inform Athletic Training Staff of all medical appointments

a. If appointment is during a school break notify Athletic Training Staff by email or phone call.

6. Pick up a provider letter from the Athletic Training staff before any and all medical appointments.

a. If appointment is during a school break notify Athletic Training Staff of appointment and contact information for medical office and provider letter will be sent on your behalf.

7. When providing an address to medical providers make sure you give them an address that you will receive the bills in a timely fashion.

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a. If you plan on giving your parent’s address, then inform your parents to be expecting mail from medical providers and give them permission to open any correspondence from those providers that arrives in the mail

8. Always inform Athletic Training staff of outcome of medical appointments so that we can ensure Ave Maria’s Athletic Insurance information is also provided to any outside facilities providing care ordered by the doctor (examples-blood work, MRIs, etc).

9. If you decide to hold off on surgeries, etc until a later date make sure that they will occur within the 104 week benefit eligible time frame.

a. This is the time frame for coverage under Ave Maria’s Secondary Insurance Policy only. You need to be aware of coverage periods for your primary insurance as they may be shorter.

10. Be mature and communicate with all involved, your parents, your Athletic Trainer, your Coach, etc. When everyone is on the same page and informed, everything goes a lot smoother.

11. PLEASE ASK QUESTIONS WHEN YOU ARE NOT SURE.

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Traveling Without an Athletic Trainer When Traveling without a certified athletic trainer please be sure retrieve the following items from the Ave Maria University Sports Medicine Staff:

I. First aid kit II. Emergency binder

III. Treatment on the road form When a student athlete is injured or becomes ill while you are on the road:

1. Contact the Host ATC and ask for help or go to the nearest Urgent Care or Emergency Room.

2. Follow the medical recommendations of the ATC or the Emergency Room Physician.

3. Contact AMU sports medicine staff ASAP to discuss the medical recommendations if there is any question.

4. Report all of these injuries/illnesses to the Ave Maria University sports medicine staff within 24 hours.

5. Prior to returning to practice or competition, the student-athlete MUST be medically cleared through the Ave Maria University sports medicine staff.

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Catastrophic Incident Guidelines The Ave Maria University Athletic Department Catastrophic Incident Guidelines will be activated when the following catastrophic incidents (CI) occur:

I. Sudden Death of a Student-Athlete, Coach, or Staff Member: • Death during competition, practice, or conditioning • Death during travel

II. Disability/Quality of Life Altering Injuries: • Spinal Cord Injury- resulting in partial or complete paralysis • Loss of Paired Organ • Severe Head Injury • Injuries resulting in severely diminished mental capacity or other neurological

injury that results in inability to perform daily functions (Coma) • Irrecoverable loss of speech or hearing (both ears) or sight (both eyes) or both

arms or both legs or one leg and one arm • Injuries that require a hospital stay

III. Catastrophic Incident Management Team:

• Director of Athletics (Director of Athletics will notify President Towey of any Catastrophic Incident)

• Director of Sports Medicine • Additional personnel as deemed appropriate by Catastrophic Incident

Management Team IV. Immediate Action Plan:

• Immediately notify Director of Sports Medicine and Director of Athletics of a catastrophic incident.

• Work with local hospital, Sports Medicine Staff, Athletic Department, and/or Police to assist in process and gather information to update the Director of Sports Medicine and Director of Athletics

• The Head Coach and/or Administrator remain on site after team departs to coordinate communication and arrangements with Ave Maria University.

* When applying these steps keep in mind the following goals:

• Get all pertinent facts regarding the incident accurately and expeditiously • Accurately document all events, especially list all participants and witnesses

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• Secure any or all available materials/ equipment involved • Respect the dignity of the individuals involved • Immediate communication within the catastrophic incident management team

*Only members of the catastrophic incident management team or designated individuals are to speak on the incident to family members, media, other staff members, student-athletes, or coaches. NO ONE ELSE HAS THE CLEARANCE TO SPEAK ON THE INCIDENT. Instruct student-athletes they are not to speak to anyone regarding the incident

V. Summary Chronicle: • Detailed written summary chronicle will be prepared following any catastrophic

incident, which identifies and explains the activities of those who participated in and responded to the incident.

• This chronicle will be used as the basis for review of procedures. • All Non-athletic related Catastrophic Injuries will follow Ave Maria University

Guidelines.

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Concussion Management Concussion Defined Concussion is a brain injury and is defined as a complex pathophysiological process affecting the brain, induced by biomechanical forces. A concussion results in a traumatically induced alteration in mental status with or without associated loss of consciousness. It can be caused from direct or indirect contact of an object hitting the head. 1. Concussion may be caused either by a direct blow to the head, face, neck or elsewhere on the body with an ‘impulsive’ force transmitted to the head. 2. Concussion typically results in the rapid onset of short-lived impairment of neurologic function that resolves spontaneously. However, in some cases, symptoms and signs may evolve over a number of minutes to hours. 3. Concussion may result in neuro-pathological changes, but the acute clinical symptoms largely reflect a functional disturbance rather than a structural injury and, as such, no abnormality is seen on standard structural neuroimaging studies. 4. Concussion results in a graded set of clinical symptoms that may or may not involve loss of consciousness. Resolution of the clinical and cognitive symptoms typically follows a sequential course. However, it is important to note that in some cases, post-concussive symptoms may be prolonged. Early Signs

• Cognitive features: unaware of game specifics (opposition colors, score of game, last play); confusion; amnesia (does not recall events prior to the hit or after the hit); alteration in consciousness; not oriented to time, place, or date.

• Physical symptoms: Headache, dizziness, nausea, unsteadiness/loss of balance, feeling “dinged” or stunned or “dazed,” “having my bell rung,” seeing stars or flashing lights, ringing in the ears, and double vision.

• Delayed symptoms: Sleep disturbance, memory disturbance, decreased information processing speed, fatigue, psychological disturbance (e.g. depression/anxiety/irritability/emotional stability).

Pre-Season Administration and Testing Head coaches will be presented with the NCAA Concussion Fact Sheet for Coaches. Head coaches will sign “Head Coach NCAA Medical Education Acknowledgement” in which the coach acknowledges they understand the concussion management plan and their role within the plan. *Prior to the first practice, first year student athletes participating in all sports will be baseline tested using the ImPACT program in order to have comparative data for future testing.

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Procedure for Treatment of Acute Head Injury Acute Evaluation/Management Athletes who are SUSPECTED of having sustained a concussion shall be removed from play immediately and evaluated by team medical staff. The evaluation shall consist of a standardized acute concussion evaluation test using the SCAT3. If the initial evaluation by the ATC verifies the presence of a concussion, the athlete will not be permitted to return to participation until cleared by an Ave Maria University Sports Medicine team physician and/or athletic training staff member. *If traveling without a certified athletic trainer contact AMU Sports Medicine ASAP to discuss the medical recommendations. Criteria for Return to Play Ave Maria University Sports Medicine believes that the athlete’s safety and health is paramount and should be first and foremost in determining return to play. If am member of the Ave Maria University Sports Medicine team verifies the presence of a concussion, the student athlete is not permitted to return to any activity until cleared by an Ave Maria University Sports Medicine team physician. Post-Acute Evaluation and Management An individualized and graded approach to RTP should begin after the player is asymptomatic at rest for at least 24-48 hours. During this time the player should have both physical and cognitive rest. The length of time a player must be symptom free will vary depending on the nature of the injury, the player’s age, concussion history and psychological status. Symptoms should be monitored on a daily basis using the Post-Concussion Symptom Checklist. An athlete who has sustained a head injury will be cleared to play only after there is:

1. Complete resolution of symptoms 2. Normal/baseline neuropsychological testing (i.e. ImPACT) 3. Successful completion of a RTP protocol as directed by an ATC 4. Medical clearance by an Ave Maria University Sports Medicine team physician

and/or athletic trainer. Return to Play Protocol (Prague Modified): (1) Rest (cognitive and physical) until asymptomatic at rest (24 hours) (2) Light aerobic exercise (e.g. stationary bicycle and body weight exercises) for 15-20 minutes.

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(3) Moderate intensity aerobic exercise and sport specific agilities (30 minutes). Exceptions for the following:

a. Soccer-NO HEADING (4) Non-contact training drills including full exertion interval training (may start weight lifting). Exceptions for the following: a. Soccer-NO HEADING b. Football-shells (5) Athlete released to full practice status while being monitored. Exceptions for the following: a. Soccer-NO HEADING b. Football-full pads and monitored contact drills excluding live team play (6) Athlete released to return to competition (game). Exceptions for the following: a. Soccer-Introduce heading drills b. Football-full contact/live team play (7) Soccer and football athletes released to return to competition (game). Progression to the next level only occurs if the player remains symptom free for 24 hours (time frame may be lessened or lengthened dependent on individual player symptoms and history). If symptoms re-emerge, the player should begin with the previous step after being symptom free for 24 hours. Player should only progress to the next level when instructed to do so by the team ATC or the Team Physician.

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Emergency Action Plan – Tom Golisano Field House A. Emergency Personnel:

a. Certified athletic trainer in the athletic training room (next door to gymnasium) during regular business hours and on site for all varsity competition.

B. Emergency Communication: a. Fixed telephone line in the gymnasium (239-304-7061) and in the athletic

training room (239-304-7865). C. Roles of First Responders

a. Survey the scene b. Activation of emergency medical system (EMS)

i. From campus telephone dial 9-911 ii. Provide name, address, telephone number, number of individuals

injured, condition of injured first aid treatment, specific directions, other information requested

iii. Notify the athletic training room of the situation c. Immediate care of the injured or ill student athlete d. Directions of EMS to scene

i. Designate individual to “flag down’’ EMS and direct to scene ii. Scene control: limit scene to first aid providers and move bystanders

away from area D. Emergency Equipment:

a. AED is mounted on wall across from the gymnasium entrance b. Additional equipment accessible in the athletic training room located next

door to the gymnasium (239-304-7865) E. Venue Directions:

a. The Tom Golisano Field House is located on: 4810 Kelleher Dr. Ave Maria, FL 34142

EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS Ambulance ................................................................................................................... 9-911 Athletic Training Room .................................................................................. 239-304-7865 Campus Security ............................................................................................. 239-280-6289 Cookie Guadalupe (Director of Sports Medicine) .......................................... 239-340-9111 Merritt Henderson (Assistant Athletic Trainer) .............................................. 772-370-3897 Otto Buchholz (Assistant Athletic Trainer) .................................................... 978-866-6086 Shawn Summe (Athletic Director) .................................................................. 239-450-1411

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Emergency Action Plan – Field House Weight Room A. Emergency Personnel:












a. The Tom Golisano Field House is located on: 4810 Kelleher Dr. Ave Maria, FL 34142

b. The weight-room is connected to both the gym and athletic training room


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Emergency Action Plan – AMU Football Field A. Emergency Personnel:










a. AED is taken out for all football events including practices b. AED is mounted on wall across from the gymnasium entrance c. Additional equipment accessible in the athletic training room located next


a. The AMU Football Field is located on: 4810 Kelleher Dr. Ave Maria, FL 34142-directly across from the Tom Golisano Fieldhouse


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Emergency Action Plan – Bowies Ballpark (Baseball) A. Emergency Personnel:












a. Bowies Ballpark is located on: 4810 Kelleher Dr. Ave Maria, FL 34142 b. Bowie’s Ballpark is located across from the Tom Golisano Field House

EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS

Ambulance ................................................................................................................... 9-911 Athletic Training Room .................................................................................. 239-304-7865 Campus Security ............................................................................................. 239-280-6289 Cookie Guadalupe (Director of Sports Medicine) .......................................... 239-340-9111 Merritt Henderson (Assistant Athletic Trainer) .............................................. 772-370-3897 Otto Buchholz (Assistant Athletic Trainer) .................................................... 978-866-6086 Shawn Summe (Athletic Director) .................................................................. 239-450-1411

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Emergency Action Plan – AMU Softball Field A. Emergency Personnel:












a. The AMU Softball field is located on: 4810 Kelleher Dr. Ave Maria, FL 34142

b. The AMU Softball field is located across from the Tom Golisano Field House


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Emergency Action Plan – AMU Tennis Complex A. Emergency Personnel:












a. The Tennis Complex is located on: 4810 Kelleher Dr. Ave Maria, FL 34142 b. The Tennis Complex is located next to the Tom Golisano Field House on the

Southeast corner.

EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS Ambulance .......................................................................................................................... 9-911 Athletic Training Room ........................................................................................ 239-304-7865 Campus Security ................................................................................................... 239-280-6289 Cookie Guadalupe (Director of Sports Medicine) ................................................ 239-340-9111 Merritt Henderson (Assistant Athletic Trainer) .................................................... 772-370-3897 Otto Buchholz (Assistant Athletic Trainer) .......................................................... 978-866-6086 Shawn Summe (Athletic Director) ....................................................................... 239-450-1411

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Emergency Action Plan – North Park (Soccer, Lacrosse) A. Emergency Personnel:












a. North Park is located at: 4010 Anthem Pkwy., Ave Maria, FL 34142


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Emergency Action Plan – Gyrene Field (Soccer, Lacrosse) A. Emergency Personnel:












a. Gyrene Field is located on: 4810 Kelleher Dr. Ave Maria, FL 34142 b. Gyrene Field is located between Tom Golisano Field House and the AMU

Softball field. EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBERS

Ambulance ................................................................................................................... 9-911 Athletic Training Room .................................................................................. 239-304-7865 Campus Security ............................................................................................. 239-280-6289 Cookie Guadalupe (Director of Sports Medicine) .......................................... 239-340-9111 Merritt Henderson (Assistant Athletic Trainer) .............................................. 772-370-3897 Otto Buchholz (Assistant Athletic Trainer) .................................................... 978-866-6086 Shawn Summe (Athletic Director) .................................................................. 239-450-1411

Documents

AVE MARIA UNIVERSITY SPORTS MEDICINE 2014-2015