Athletic Training
What is an athletic trainer?
A certified athletic trainer (ATC) is a highly skilled healthcare professional who specializes in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation of sports-related injuries and medical conditions. They play a crucial role in the overall health and well-being of athletes and physically active individuals. Certified athletic trainers work under five primary domains:
- Injury and Illness Prevention and Wellness Promotion: This involves creating and implementing strategies to reduce the risk of injuries and promoting overall wellness among athletes.
- Examination, Assessment, and Diagnosis: ATCs are trained to evaluate and diagnose injuries accurately, which includes conducting physical examinations and using various diagnostic tools
- Immediate and Emergency Care: They provide first aid and emergency care in the event of acute injuries or medical conditions, ensuring quick and effective on-site treatment
- Therapeutic Intervention: This encompasses developing and overseeing rehabilitation programs to help athletes recover from injuries and return to their sport safely
- Healthcare Administration and Professional Responsibility: ATCs manage healthcare facilities, maintain medical records, and ensure compliance with regulatory standards, while also engaging in continued professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in sports medicine.
Certified athletic trainers typically work in various settings, including schools, colleges, professional sports teams, clinics, hospitals, and even corporate environments. Their comprehensive skill set and dedication make them invaluable in promoting athletic safety and performance.
Physical Day
Every year OHS has doctors come to the school to provide physical examinations at a reasonable price. An athlete may either go to their own physician or attend the physical day on campus. If both are unavailable, reach out to the athletic trainer for other options.
Athletic Clearance
As required by CIF Bylaw 503G, all student-athletes are required to receive an annual preparticipation physical examination (PPE) certifying that the student-athlete is physically fit to participate in athletics. The physical must be completed and turned in to Home Campus on the school-approved Preparticipation Physical Examination Form prior to any tryout, practice or interscholastic athletic competition. All physical examinations must be completed and signed by an MD, DO, PA, or NP. We are unable to accept any physical examination signed by a DC (Doctor of Chiropractic).
Additionally, all incoming and returning student-athletes are required, on an annual basis, to complete the online athletic clearance prior to any participation in sports. This can be completed at www.homecampus.com.
If you have any questions regarding the athletic clearance process, please do not hesitate to contact our Head Athletic Trainer, Jessica Fortner, at jessica.fortner@commonspirit.org or our Athletic Director Rick Garcia, at rick.garcia@oxnardunion.org
Concussions
A concussion is a type of traumatic brain injury caused by a bump, blow, or jolt to the head, or by a hit to the body that causes the head and brain to move rapidly back and forth. This sudden movement can cause the brain to bounce or twist in the skull, creating chemical changes in the brain and sometimes stretching and damaging brain cells. Symptoms can include headaches, confusion, dizziness, nausea, and even temporary loss of consciousness.
California State Law AB 2127, enacted in 2014, aims to protect student-athletes from the dangers of returning to play too soon after sustaining a concussion. This law mandates that any student suspected of having a concussion during an athletic activity must be immediately removed from play and cannot return until they have been evaluated and cleared by a licensed healthcare provider.
Emergency Action Plan
An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is a comprehensive, organized approach designed to guide individuals and organizations in responding effectively to emergencies. This plan outlines specific procedures and protocols to be followed in the event of various emergencies, such as natural disasters, fires, medical crises, or other unforeseen incidents. Key components of an EAP typically include clear evacuation routes, roles and responsibilities of team members, communication strategies, and methods for accounting for all individuals during and after an emergency.
Policies and Procedures
Policies and procedures in an athletic training room are essential for ensuring the safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of the care provided to athletes. These guidelines are designed to standardize operations and promote a high standard of care, covering everything from injury assessment and treatment protocols to the use of equipment and emergency response plans. Following these policies and procedures is critical for several reasons. Firstly, they help prevent injuries by providing clear instructions on safe practice. Secondly, they ensure that all athletes receive consistent and high-quality care, which is vital for their health and performance. Thirdly, adherence to these guidelines is crucial for legal and ethical reasons, protecting both the athletes and the medical staff from liability. Finally, well-defined policies and procedures facilitate effective communication and coordination among the athletic training team, enhancing overall operational efficiency and effectiveness.
Athletic Training Staff
Jessica Fortner MA, ATC |
Head Athletic Trainer
805 - 389 - 6423 (office)
805 - 253 - 3719 (google voice)
Healthcare Partners
Dignity Health ||
St. Johns Regional Medical Center
Dr. Zeman, MD || Ventura Orthopedics
Student Support Staff
