Ingenious-Think Like an Engineer!
The outcome of the testing was so consistent that even its developers seemed a bit taken aback. This “single, five-minute test” requiring “equipment costing less than five U.S. dollars” had “comparable test characteristics to other concussion assessment tools, including lengthier, computerized neuropsychological test batteries.”
The practical implications of this finding are obvious. Even the least handy of coaches or trainers can cobble together a makeshift ruler using a puck and dowel, use it to determine athletes’ baseline reaction times, and re-test any player who is suspected of sustaining a concussion. The test reliably can be administered on the sidelines immediately after a hard hit, Dr. Broglio said, and if a player shows a longer reaction time, no matter how slight the increase, the player should almost certainly be removed from play and seen by a doctor.