Diagnosis of Concussion in the Pediatric Emergency Department

Pediatric visits to the Emergency Department (ED) for concussion are common and increasing. ED clinicians evaluating children with concussion should first ensure the absence of more serious injuries requiring immediate intervention, such as intracranial hemorrhage or cervical spine injury. In the ED setting, signs and symptoms of concussion are sometime subtle and often overlooked. A thorough physical exam is warranted but may be normal. Imaging and laboratory studies have no role in concussion diagnosis and should be reserved for cases where an injury requiring immediate intervention is suspected. Symptom management may include avoiding symptom-triggers (such as bright lights triggering headaches) and/or specific treatments such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories or antiemetics. Discharge instructions should include a recommendation for a brief period of rest, followed by outpatient management for return-to-activity decisions in conjunction with a primary care provider.