Which tool is standardized for evaluating concussions?

The SCAT5, or Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 5, is the standardized tool specifically designed for evaluating concussions in athletes. It provides a comprehensive assessment method that includes symptom evaluation, cognitive assessment, and physical examination, enabling practitioners to identify and manage concussions effectively.

The SCAT5 is utilized globally in various sports settings and includes a series of questions and tests that help healthcare providers gauge an athlete's mental status, balance, and cognitive function following a head injury. The standardized nature of the SCAT5 allows for consistent assessments, making it easier to track changes over time and determine the appropriate return-to-play protocols.

While tools like the DASH (Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand) focus on upper extremity conditions and the BESS (Balance Error Scoring System) measures balance which could be influenced by a concussion, they are not specifically designed for comprehensive concussion evaluation. The Functional Movement Screen assesses movement quality and is valuable in identifying movement deficiencies but does not specifically address concussion symptoms or cognitive function. Thus, SCAT5 stands out as the recognized standard in the evaluation of concussions.