Kirsten Wing1, Hollie J Bailey1, Piotr Gronek2, Robert Podstawski3, Cain C T Clark4,5. 1. Sport, Exercise and Well-Being Research Arena, Hartpury University, Gloucester, GL19 3BE, UK. 2. Laboratory of Genetics, Department of Dance and Gymnastics, University School of Physical Education in Poznań, Poznań, Poland. 3. Department of Physical Education and Sport, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Olsztyn, Poland. 4. Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, Coventry University, Coventry, CV1 5FB, UK. cain.clark@coventry.ac.uk. 5. Engineering Behaviour Analytics in Sports and Exercise (E-BASE) Research Group, Swansea University, Wales, SA1 8EN, UK. cain.clark@coventry.ac.uk.
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Governing bodies are largely responsible for the monitoring and management of risks associated with a safe playing environment, yet adherence to regulations is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate and evaluate the current status of medical personnel, facilities, and equipment in Rugby Union clubs at regional level in England. METHODS: A nationwide cross-sectional survey of 242 registered clubs was undertaken, where clubs were surveyed online on their current medical personnel, facilities, and equipment provision, according to regulation 9 of the Rugby Football Union (RFU). RESULTS: Overall, 91 (45. 04%) surveys were returned from the successfully contacted recipients. Of the completed responses, only 23.61% (n = 17) were found to be compliant with regulations. Furthermore, 30.56% (n = 22) of clubs were unsure if their medical personnel had required qualifications; thus, compliance could not be determined. There was a significant correlation (p = -0.029, r = 0.295) between club level and numbers of practitioners. There was no significant correlation indicated between the number of practitioners/number of teams and number of practitioners/number of players. There were significant correlations found between club level and equipment score (p = 0.003, r = -0.410), club level and automated external defibrillator (AED) access (p = 0.002, r = -0.352) and practitioner level and AED access (p = 0.0001, r = 0.404). Follow-up, thematic analysis highlighted widespread club concern around funding/cost, awareness, availability of practitioners and AED training. CONCLUSION: The proportion of clubs not adhering overall compliance with Regulation 9 of the RFU is concerning for player welfare, and an overhaul, nationally, is required.
BACKGROUND: Governing bodies are largely responsible for the monitoring and management of risks associated with a safe playing environment, yet adherence to regulations is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate and evaluate the current status of medical personnel, facilities, and equipment in Rugby Union clubs at regional level in England. METHODS: A nationwide cross-sectional survey of 242 registered clubs was undertaken, where clubs were surveyed online on their current medical personnel, facilities, and equipment provision, according to regulation 9 of the Rugby Football Union (RFU). RESULTS: Overall, 91 (45. 04%) surveys were returned from the successfully contacted recipients. Of the completed responses, only 23.61% (n = 17) were found to be compliant with regulations. Furthermore, 30.56% (n = 22) of clubs were unsure if their medical personnel had required qualifications; thus, compliance could not be determined. There was a significant correlation (p = -0.029, r = 0.295) between club level and numbers of practitioners. There was no significant correlation indicated between the number of practitioners/number of teams and number of practitioners/number of players. There were significant correlations found between club level and equipment score (p = 0.003, r = -0.410), club level and automated external defibrillator (AED) access (p = 0.002, r = -0.352) and practitioner level and AED access (p = 0.0001, r = 0.404). Follow-up, thematic analysis highlighted widespread club concern around funding/cost, awareness, availability of practitioners and AED training. CONCLUSION: The proportion of clubs not adhering overall compliance with Regulation 9 of the RFU is concerning for player welfare, and an overhaul, nationally, is required.
Entities:
Keywords:
AED; Concussion; First aid; Injury prevention; Medical provision; Rugby union; Safety
Authors: Jonathan A Drezner; Ashwin L Rao; Justin Heistand; Megan K Bloomingdale; Kimberly G Harmon Journal: Circulation Date: 2009-07-27 Impact factor: 29.690