Athletic Trainer treats and prevents athletic injuries by developing therapies to reduce pain and improve mobility under the direction of a physician. Assists in exercise instruction and demonstration, patient evaluation and testing. Being an Athletic Trainer may require state license to practice. Typically requires a bachelor's degree in exercise science, sports science or equivalent. Additionally, Athletic Trainer typically requires certification as a Certified Athletic Trainer. Typically reports to a manager or head of a unit/department. The Athletic Trainer occasionally directed in several aspects of the work. Gaining exposure to some of the complex tasks within the job function. To be an Athletic Trainer typically requires 2 -4 years of related experience. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)
MAIN FUNCTION:
Prevention of athletic injuries, recognition, evaluation, and immediate care of athletic injuries, rehabilitation of athletic injuries, restoring function and reaching maximum level of independence, health care administration, and professional development and responsibility as specified in the Domains of the NATA Certified Athletic Trainer.
The athletic trainer serves as a liaison between Athletic Director, Rehab Services Director, coaches, physicians, therapists, athletes, and parents.
The athletic trainer ensures that players participate only when physically able and that any physician instructions are understood and followed.
The athletic trainer will coordinate with the activities/athletic director to ensure that the athletic training room and all required events will be covered.
Follow practice/game plan procedures.
Provide for the prevention of athletic injuries through the application of protective tapings, wraps, and braces and assist in the design of practices to help reduce the incidence of injury.
Provide immediate care for athletic injuries and refer the athlete to medical facilities when necessary.
Determine the status of all injured athletics which will include acute care, rehabilitation, return to activity (in consultation with health services partners/physicians/therapists), contact parents when appropriate, report to head coaches on the status and progress of all injured athletes, monitor all environment aspects such as weather/field conditions during events.
Offer first aid/training skills if requested to visiting teams
Maintain a neat and clean athletic training clinic at all times
Inventory and monitor all supplies throughout the school year.
Maintaining a professional attitude and appearance at all times
Be responsible for record keeping of all documents and use of EMR applications. Medical histories and correspondence are to be kept on file. Maintain accurate medical records for injuries, treatment, rehabilitation, and referrals to physicians/therapists/medical professionals.
EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE:
The athletic trainer must be certified by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association Board of Certification (NATABOC) and maintain the standards established by the National Athletic Trainers’ Association’s (NATA) role delineation study.
Minimum of Bachelor’s degree in Athletic Training.
CPR certification required; recertification as required.