{"id":20818,"date":"2026-07-12T13:35:25","date_gmt":"2026-07-12T17:35:25","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/?p=20818"},"modified":"2026-07-08T10:08:32","modified_gmt":"2026-07-08T14:08:32","slug":"concussion-reporting-4-steps","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/concussion-reporting-4-steps\/","title":{"rendered":"What Are the 4 Steps for Reporting a Concussion?"},"content":{"rendered":"

A <\/span>concussion<\/b> is not always spectacular. It can occur without loss of consciousness or visible injury, but its effects on the brain can be serious and prolonged. Unfortunately, <\/span>too many concussions go unnoticed<\/b>: out of ignorance, out of fear of being pulled from the game, or because the symptoms are subtle at first.<\/span><\/p>\n

To avoid complications and ensure a full recovery, there is now a <\/span>structured four-step reporting process<\/b>. These steps make it possible to quickly identify the injury, ensure the patient’s safety and put appropriate follow-up in place.<\/span><\/p>\n

1. First Step: Recognizing the Signs and Immediate Removal<\/b><\/h2>\n

a. Identifying Symptoms From the Very First Moments<\/b><\/h3>\n

The first step in the reporting process is to <\/span>recognize the early signs<\/b> of a concussion. These can appear immediately or emerge a few minutes after the impact.<\/span><\/p>\n

Typical symptoms include:<\/span><\/p>\n

    \n
  • Headaches or pressure in the head.<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Dizziness or loss of balance.<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Blurred or double vision.<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Confusion or disorientation.<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Nausea, vomiting.<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Sensitivity to light or noise.<\/span><\/li>\n
  • Drowsiness or mental slowing.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

    b. The Reflex to Adopt: Remove the Person From the Activity<\/b><\/h3>\n

    As soon as a concussion is suspected, the <\/span>golden rule<\/b> is clear:<\/span><\/p>\n

    “When in doubt, sit them out.”<\/b><\/p>\n

    The person must <\/span>never continue playing, working or exerting themselves<\/b> until a medical evaluation has been done. This precaution considerably reduces the risk of <\/span>second impact syndrome<\/b>, a rare but serious complication where a second blow occurs before the brain has fully healed.<\/span><\/p>\n

    c. Collective Responsibility<\/b><\/h3>\n

    In schools, sports settings and workplaces, everyone involved (coach, teacher, colleague) must be aware of the signs of a concussion so they can trigger the reporting process at the first suspicion.<\/span><\/p>\n

    2. Second Step: Medical Evaluation and Case Documentation<\/b><\/h2>\n

    a. Initial Assessment by a Healthcare Professional<\/b><\/h3>\n

    Once removed from the activity, the patient must be <\/span>assessed by a physician, an emergency doctor or a professional trained in head trauma<\/b>. The goal is to rule out any serious brain injury (such as an intracranial hemorrhage) and confirm the concussion diagnosis.<\/span><\/p>\n

    The assessment includes:<\/span><\/p>\n

      \n
    • A <\/span>complete neurological examination<\/b> (reflexes, coordination, balance).<\/span><\/li>\n
    • Cognitive tests<\/b> (memory, orientation, attention).<\/span><\/li>\n
    • The use of standardized tools, such as the <\/span>SCAT5<\/b> (Sport Concussion Assessment Tool).<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

      b. Documenting the Case<\/b><\/h3>\n

      It is crucial to <\/span>document the injury<\/b>:<\/span><\/p>\n

        \n
      • Date and time of the impact.<\/span><\/li>\n
      • Context (sport, fall, accident).<\/span><\/li>\n
      • Symptoms observed.<\/span><\/li>\n
      • Progression in the hours that follow.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

        This information serves as a reference for medical follow-up and the gradual return to activities.<\/span><\/p>\n

        c. Communication With Those in Charge<\/b><\/h3>\n

        In school or sports settings, supervising staff must inform <\/span>parents, coaches and medical personnel<\/b>. Clear communication ensures the person will be adequately monitored over the next 24 to 48 hours, a critical period during which some symptoms may worsen.<\/span><\/p>\n

        3. Third Step: Medical Follow-Up and Recovery Plan<\/b><\/h2>\n

        a. Observation in the Following Days<\/b><\/h3>\n

        After the initial diagnosis, the patient must be <\/span>closely monitored<\/b>. Symptoms can evolve: some fade, others appear later (fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances).<\/span>
        \nPhysicians generally recommend:<\/span><\/p>\n

          \n
        • A <\/span>complete rest of 24 to 48 hours<\/b>, with no screens or mental effort.<\/span><\/li>\n
        • A <\/span>gradual return to activities<\/b> based on tolerance.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

          b. The Gradual Return Plan<\/b><\/h3>\n

          The reintegration protocol usually follows <\/span>five progressive steps<\/b>, each separated by at least 24 hours:<\/span><\/p>\n

            \n
          1. Light activities (walking, simple tasks).<\/span><\/li>\n
          2. Moderate cognitive activities (reading, studying).<\/span><\/li>\n
          3. Partial return to school or work.<\/span><\/li>\n
          4. Moderate physical exercise without contact.<\/span><\/li>\n
          5. Full return to normal activity, after medical clearance.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

            Returning too quickly prolongs symptoms and increases the risk of relapse.<\/span><\/p>\n

            c. Consulting Specialists<\/b><\/h3>\n

            If symptoms persist beyond 2 to 3 weeks, the patient should see a <\/span>neuropsychologist or a brain rehabilitation specialist<\/b>. These professionals assess cognitive functions (memory, attention, processing speed) and may recommend <\/span>appropriate rehabilitation<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

            4. Fourth Step: Neuropsychological Follow-Up and Relapse Prevention<\/b><\/h2>\n

            a. In-Depth Assessment of Brain Functions<\/b><\/h3>\n

            Neuropsychological follow-up makes it possible to precisely measure the impact of the concussion on mental, emotional and behavioural abilities. This follow-up is particularly useful for:<\/span><\/p>\n

              \n
            • Athletes at risk of relapse.<\/span><\/li>\n
            • Children and adolescents in school settings.<\/span><\/li>\n
            • Workers exposed to hazardous environments.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

              Standardized tests verify that <\/span>cognitive function has returned to normal<\/b> before a full return to activities.<\/span><\/p>\n

              b. Cognitive and Emotional Rehabilitation<\/b><\/h3>\n

              When symptoms persist (mental fatigue, concentration problems, anxiety), targeted rehabilitation can help the brain <\/span>regain its full efficiency<\/b>. Modern tools (such as <\/span>neurofeedback<\/b>, the <\/span>quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG)<\/b> and cognitive exercise programs) help stimulate weakened neuronal connections.<\/span><\/p>\n

              c. Long-Term Prevention<\/b><\/h3>\n

              Once the concussion has healed, it is essential to:<\/span><\/p>\n

                \n
              • Wear appropriate protective equipment (helmets, harnesses).<\/span><\/li>\n
              • Adapt sports techniques to reduce blows to the head.<\/span><\/li>\n
              • Train supervisors to recognize warning signs.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                Prevention relies above all on <\/span>collective vigilance<\/b> and <\/span>transparency in reporting<\/b>.<\/span><\/p>\n

                5. The Role of Schools and Sports Organizations<\/b><\/h2>\n

                School and sports settings play a crucial role in the <\/span>rapid reporting<\/b> of concussions. Protocols should include:<\/span><\/p>\n

                  \n
                • Standardized <\/span>reporting forms<\/b>.<\/span><\/li>\n
                • A <\/span>clear communication chain<\/b> between teachers, parents and healthcare professionals.<\/span><\/li>\n
                • Annual training<\/b> on symptom recognition.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                  Some Canadian provinces already require schools to apply an official <\/span>concussion management<\/b> policy, inspired by the recommendations of the Canadian Paediatric Society and the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).<\/span><\/p>\n

                  6. Why Rapid Reporting Changes Everything<\/b><\/h2>\n

                  Reporting within the first few hours makes it possible to:<\/span><\/p>\n

                    \n
                  • Avoid a second blow before full healing.<\/span><\/li>\n
                  • Reduce the average duration of symptoms.<\/span><\/li>\n
                  • Lower the risk of long-term after-effects.<\/span><\/li>\n
                  • Ensure better psychological support.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                    Conversely, late reporting increases the risk of <\/span>post-concussion syndrome<\/b>, chronic anxiety and memory problems.<\/span><\/p>\n

                    7. The Importance of Specialized Support<\/b><\/h2>\n

                    Concussion follow-up is not limited to medical observation. Since the brain has been thrown off balance, its <\/span>cognitive and emotional circuits sometimes need to be retrained<\/b>. This is where clinics specializing in neuropsychology come in, offering a scientific and personalized approach for each patient.<\/span><\/p>\n

                    8. Neurodezign: Understanding, Rehabilitating and Preventing<\/b><\/h2>\n

                    Neurodezign<\/b> is a Quebec clinic specializing in <\/span>neuropsychological assessment and remediation<\/b>. Its approach aims to <\/span>optimize brain recovery<\/b> after conditions such as concussion, learning disorders or attention deficits.<\/span><\/p>\n

                    The team works with <\/span>children, adolescents and adults<\/b>, combining scientific rigour and modern technologies to restore the brain’s balance.<\/span><\/p>\n

                    Advanced Tools for a Precise Assessment<\/b><\/h3>\n

                    Neurodezign uses methods combining <\/span>classic neuropsychology<\/b> and <\/span>neurotechnology<\/b> techniques, including:<\/span><\/p>\n

                      \n
                    • The quantitative electroencephalogram (qEEG)<\/b>, which observes the brain’s electrical activity and identifies disrupted areas.<\/span><\/li>\n
                    • Neurofeedback and biofeedback<\/b>, which train the brain to regulate itself autonomously through real-time feedback.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                      Tailored Support for Each Patient<\/b><\/h3>\n

                      Each program is adapted to the patient’s needs:<\/span><\/p>\n

                        \n
                      • Cognitive and attentional rehabilitation.<\/span><\/li>\n
                      • Stress management and emotional regulation.<\/span><\/li>\n
                      • Optimizing the return to work, school or sports.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n

                        Neurodezign does not limit itself to treating symptoms; its mission is to help the brain <\/span>regain its functional and emotional stability<\/b>, while strengthening its long-term resilience.<\/span><\/p>\n

                        Conclusion: Reporting Means Protecting<\/b><\/h2>\n

                        Reporting a concussion should never be taken lightly. It is a <\/span>vital preventive measure<\/b>, both to avoid immediate complications and to protect long-term cognitive health. <\/span>The <\/span>four reporting steps<\/b> (recognition, evaluation, follow-up and rehabilitation) form an essential chain that saves lives and preserves neurological well-being.<\/span><\/p>\n

                        Thanks to the expertise of centres like <\/span>Neurodezign<\/b>, the recovery process becomes more precise, measurable and human. <\/span>These modern approaches make it possible not only to heal, but also to <\/span>optimize brain performance<\/b>, ensuring a return to active life and self-confidence.<\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

                        Prompt reporting is critical after a concussion. This article outlines the 4 key steps to recognize, assess, monitor and rehabilitate a patient, helping prevent lasting neurological complications.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":20809,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_seopress_titles_title":"4 Steps for Reporting a Concussion | Neurodezign","_seopress_titles_desc":"Recognition, assessment, monitoring and rehabilitation: learn the 4 key steps for reporting a concussion and preventing long-term complications.","_seopress_robots_index":"","_seopress_robots_follow":"","_seopress_robots_imageindex":"","_seopress_robots_snippet":"","_seopress_robots_primary_cat":"","_seopress_robots_breadcrumbs":"","_seopress_robots_freeze_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_custom_modified_date":"","_seopress_robots_canonical":"","_seopress_social_fb_title":"","_seopress_social_fb_desc":"","_seopress_social_fb_img":"","_seopress_social_fb_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_fb_img_height":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_title":"","_seopress_social_twitter_desc":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img":"","_seopress_social_twitter_img_attachment_id":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_width":0,"_seopress_social_twitter_img_height":0,"_seopress_redirections_value":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled":"","_seopress_redirections_enabled_regex":"","_seopress_redirections_logged_status":"","_seopress_redirections_param":"","_seopress_redirections_type":0,"_seopress_analysis_target_kw":"","_seopress_news_disabled":"","_seopress_video_disabled":"","_seopress_video":[],"_seopress_pro_schemas_manual":[{"_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_type":"Article","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_title":"What Are the 4 Steps for Reporting a Concussion?","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_desc":"Recognition, assessment, monitoring and rehabilitation: learn the 4 key steps for reporting a concussion and preventing long-term complications.","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_author":"Dre Johanne L\u00e9vesque","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_img":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/shutterstock_2483199323-scaled.jpg","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_coverage_start_date":"","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_coverage_start_time":"","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_coverage_end_date":"","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_coverage_end_time":"","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_speakable_css_selector":"","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_type":"articles","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_img_attachment_id":"20809","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_img_width":"2560","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_article_img_height":"2268"}],"_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_disable_all":"","_seopress_pro_rich_snippets_disable":[],"_seopress_pro_schemas":[],"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-20818","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-uncategorized"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20818","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=20818"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20818\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":20834,"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/20818\/revisions\/20834"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/20809"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=20818"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=20818"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/neurodezign.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=20818"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}