Athletic Trainer-Athlete Communication and Injury Reporting

Through the progression of athletic training education, there has been an increased emphasis on psychosocial aspects related to the field as is evident in the 2011 Athletic Training Education Competencies. The ability to effectively communicate has been identified as an important characteristic for athletic trainers in providing quality care to patients (Raab, Wolfe, Gould, Piland, 2011). Athletic trainers must be able to communicate effectively not only with patients, but also physicians, parents, coaches, and peers. Although research examining effective communication in athletic training is limited, the session will examine existing research performed addressing communication in athletic training and other healthcare professions, such as medicine and nursing. In addition, the session will discuss research linking the athletic trainer-patient relationship and injury reporting tendencies along with practical application of the research to assist the athletic trainer in further development of their professional relationships.