What is an Athletic Trainer?
Athletic Trainers (ATs) are highly qualified, multi-skilled health care professionals who collaborate with physicians to provide the following:
- Preventative services
- Therapeutic intervention
- Rehabilitation of injuries & medical conditions
- Clinical examination & diagnosis
- Emergency care
Emergency injuries and illnesses that ATs are trained to treat include, but are not limited to:
- Concussion
- Heat stroke
- Asthma attack
- Spine injuries
- Sudden cardiac arrest
- Diabetic emergencies
- Fractures
- Sprains & strains
To Become an AT
A person must graduate from an accredited educational program & pass the certification examination. ATs are regulated in 49 states and the District of Columbia. Efforts continue to add licensure in the state of California.
ATs Reduce Risk
Participating in any activity carries a risk. Although rare, sudden death & catastrophic injury can occur in youth sports. Having an AT onsite allows for immediate response if a life-threatening situation arises. ATs work with coaches, administrators and other school district staff to mitigate risk to student athletes and the school. The AT must consistently monitor students, facilities, activities and daily procedures to ensure that any injury that can be prevented is avoided. For more information about how ATs provide a safer approach to work, life & sports visit AtYourOwnRisk.org
