You’re on the Front Lines of Prevention
BEFORE INJURY
- Promote education. Talk with athletes and families during routine visits about pain, rest, and the risks of opioids.
- Screen holistically. Include mental health questions and substance use risk assessments in physical exams.
- Partner with schools. Offer training or collaborate on sports injury and medication management protocols.
DURING INJURY
- Choose wisely. Prioritize non-opioid treatment options when possible.
- Educate clearly. Set expectations for healing, safe medication use, and disposal. Speak to both athletes and their parent(s).
- Assess mental health. Consider short-term counseling referrals for athletes struggling emotionally.
AFTER INJURY
- Follow up. Even short prescriptions carry risks; check in to track progress and monitor for warning signs.
- Document well. Ensure all notes clearly guide return-to-play timing and flag mental or emotional health needs.
- Offer community resources. Provide handouts or links to safe disposal sites, therapy options, or support groups.