The knowledge and attitude concerning sport-related concussion among coaches: A survey study

Abstract

Background: There are no studies investigating the level of knowledge about and attitude towards sports-related concussions (SRC) among sports coaches in Jordan.

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the knowledge about and attitude towards SRC among Jordanian sports coaches.

Method: Our study was based on a cross-sectional survey. An Arabic version of the questionnaire from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention was used to collect data. The survey identified participants’ demographics and knowledge about (0–10 points with higher scores indicating a higher knowledge) and attitude towards (8–40 with lower scores indicating favourable attitudes) SRC. Descriptive statistics and the Kruskal–Wallis test were used to examine knowledge and attitude differences by demographic factors. Spearman’s correlation examined the correlation between the total knowledge and attitude scores.

Results: Participants included 193 coaches (62 basketball, 66 martial arts, 30 soccer, and 35 swimming). The median total knowledge and attitude scores were 4 and 30, respectively. The total knowledge score was the highest in martial arts coaches (median = 4) and those with graduate degrees (median = 5). The total attitude score was the lowest among basketball coaches (median = 28) and those who were 40–50 years old (median = 28). No significant correlation between knowledge and attitude scores was observed.

Conclusion: Jordanian coaches have a deficiency in knowledge about SRC and hold attitudes that are not consistent with current practice recommendations.

Clinical implications: Knowledge and attitude about SRC can be improved through education, access to healthcare providers, and adherence to SRC management guidelines.