ImPACT Testing
Marist Catholic High School uses an innovative software program called ImPACT (Immediate
Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) in order to better manage concussions
sustained by our student-athletes. ImPACT is a computerized exam that student-athletes take
prior to athletic season. This program assists our team physician and athletic trainer in
evaluating, treating, and managing head injuries (e.g., concussion). If an athlete is believed to
have suffered a head injury during competition, ImPACT is used to help determine the severity
of head injury and when the injury has fully healed.
The computerized exam is given to athletes before beginning contact sport practice or
competition (preseason) to establish their personal baseline. The exam takes about 25-30
minutes and is non-invasive. The program is basically set-up as a “video-game” type format. It
tracks neurocognitive information such as memory, reaction time, brain processing speed, and
concentration. For example, in one part of the exam, a dozen common words appear one at a
time on the screen for about one second each. The athlete is then later asked what words were
displayed. It is a simple exam and most who take it enjoy the challenge of the test. It, however,
is not an IQ test.
If a concussion is suspected, the athlete will re-take the test within 24-72 hours of injury, and the
data is compared to the baseline test. Both the preseason and post-injury test data will be given
to Michael Koester, MD and/or your primary care physician for review. The test data is then
used as a tool to assist the Athletic Trainer and treating physicians in determining the extent of
the injury, monitoring recovery, and in making safe return to play decisions. If an injury of this
nature occurs, we will be in contact with you. Post-concussion tests will also be taken under
our supervision at school.
The ImPACT testing procedures are non-invasive, and they pose no risks to your student-athlete.
We are excited to implement this program given that it provides us the best available information
for managing concussions and preventing potential brain damage that can occur with multiple
concussions. The Marist Catholic High School administration, athletic training, and coaching
staffs are striving to keep your child’s health and safety at the forefront of the student athletic
experience.
Post Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing) in order to better manage concussions
sustained by our student-athletes. ImPACT is a computerized exam that student-athletes take
prior to athletic season. This program assists our team physician and athletic trainer in
evaluating, treating, and managing head injuries (e.g., concussion). If an athlete is believed to
have suffered a head injury during competition, ImPACT is used to help determine the severity
of head injury and when the injury has fully healed.
The computerized exam is given to athletes before beginning contact sport practice or
competition (preseason) to establish their personal baseline. The exam takes about 25-30
minutes and is non-invasive. The program is basically set-up as a “video-game” type format. It
tracks neurocognitive information such as memory, reaction time, brain processing speed, and
concentration. For example, in one part of the exam, a dozen common words appear one at a
time on the screen for about one second each. The athlete is then later asked what words were
displayed. It is a simple exam and most who take it enjoy the challenge of the test. It, however,
is not an IQ test.
If a concussion is suspected, the athlete will re-take the test within 24-72 hours of injury, and the
data is compared to the baseline test. Both the preseason and post-injury test data will be given
to Michael Koester, MD and/or your primary care physician for review. The test data is then
used as a tool to assist the Athletic Trainer and treating physicians in determining the extent of
the injury, monitoring recovery, and in making safe return to play decisions. If an injury of this
nature occurs, we will be in contact with you. Post-concussion tests will also be taken under
our supervision at school.
The ImPACT testing procedures are non-invasive, and they pose no risks to your student-athlete.
We are excited to implement this program given that it provides us the best available information
for managing concussions and preventing potential brain damage that can occur with multiple
concussions. The Marist Catholic High School administration, athletic training, and coaching
staffs are striving to keep your child’s health and safety at the forefront of the student athletic
experience.
