K. Hoefling

Predicting Posttraumatic Stress Following Pediatric Injury: A Systematic Review

OBJECTIVE To review the recent empirical literature concerning development of posttraumatic stress symptoms following pediatric injury and summarize risk and predictive factors that will inform clinical practice and research. METHODS A systematic search of online databases such as PsycInfo, PILOTS, MedLine, and PubMed was performed. Further studies were identified through the reference lists of selected articles. RESULTS Pre-injury psychological problems, the childs subjective experience of trauma severity/life threat, elevated heart rate immediately following the trauma, beliefs regarding initial symptoms, active thought suppression, and parental posttraumatic stress appear to be consistent predictors of persisting posttraumatic stress in children following injury. CONCLUSIONS Specific variables may be useful in predicting posttraumatic stress following injury, which are discussed in terms of existing models of pediatric traumatic stress. Methodologies of included studies are also discussed.

Concussion history and knowledge base in competitive equestrian athletes.

Background: Head injuries are responsible for the majority of serious equestrian sports injuries and deaths. Because of significant health risks to equestrians, education regarding the prevention of head and brain injuries is essential. Hypothesis: A significant number of riders have experienced a concussion, and few have knowledge of concussion. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Level of Evidence: Level 2. Methods: Ninety-four riders competing, riding, or attending equestrian events at the Palm Beach International Equestrian Center in Wellington, Florida, from January to April 2010 were surveyed. Measures of central tendency were utilized to evaluate response patterns. Results: Almost half of equestrian riders (44%) experienced concussions during their careers. Those riders who suffered a brain injury were likely to return to riding without seeking medical clearance. Almost 40% of riders were never educated regarding concussions, while 15% received education from their trainers. Conclusion: Education of riders, parents, and horse trainers is needed to raise awareness of concussions and reduce the likelihood of subsequent injuries.