Essential Prep Tips for Athletic Trainers Ahead of the New School Year

First, we wanted to let you know that we're hosting a webinar on Thursday on this very topic!

Join us at 1PM on 5/16 for even more tips on your Fall prep! 

As the current school year wraps up, Athletic Trainers can better prepare for the new school year and their busiest sports season in the fall by focusing on a few of the following strategies:

• Continuing Education and Training: Stay updated with the latest techniques, certifications, and best practices in sports medicine and athletic training through workshops, courses, and seminars. 
• Review and Update Protocols: Assess and revise Emergency Action Plans, injury prevention programs, and rehabilitation protocols to ensure they are current and effective.
• Organize Supplies and Equipment: Conduct an inventory check, restock medical supplies, and ensure all equipment is in good working condition. Order any necessary supplies well in advance.
• Plan Pre-Season Conditioning Programs: Design and implement conditioning programs for athletes to follow during the summer to reduce the risk of injuries and improve overall fitness levels.
• Collaboration and Communication: Establish clear lines of communication with coaches, school administrators, and local healthcare providers to ensure a coordinated approach to athlete care.
• Athlete Assessments: Schedule pre-season physicals and baseline concussion testing to identify any pre-existing conditions or injuries that need attention before the season starts.
• Prep your Forms: Build out all your forms so that document types or Surveys are ready
• Mental Health Resources: Collaborate with mental health professionals to provide resources and support for student-athletes, emphasizing the importance of mental well-being alongside physical health.
• Education and Awareness: Organize workshops or informational sessions for athletes, parents, and coaches on injury prevention, nutrition, hydration, and the importance of rest and recovery.
• Prepare Reports: Utilize technology, such as your EMR, to discover and share your insights, results, cost savings and generated revenue. See if you can spot trends, on injuries or a particular sport, and improve your research opportunities.
• Self-Care: Prioritize personal health and well-being to be physically and mentally prepared for the demands of the upcoming season.

By proactively addressing these areas, Athletic Trainers can ensure they are well-prepared to support their athletes and manage the busy sports season effectively.

Also, we have a webinar coming up on 5/16/24 at 1PM Eastern that addresses this very topic! Register for the webinar today!