Journal of athletic training
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
The combined tool approach for face mask removal during on-field conditions.
An effective approach to emergency removal of the face mask (FM) from a football helmet should include successful removal of the FM and limitation of both the time required and the movement created during the process. Current recommendations and practice are to use a cutting tool to remove the FM. Researchers recently have suggested an alternate approach that combines the use of a cordless screwdriver and a cutting tool. This combined tool approach has not been studied, and FM removal has not been studied in a practical setting. ⋯ Combining the cordless screwdriver and cutting tool provided a fast and reliable means of on-field FM removal in this Division II setting. Despite the excellent overall result, 1 FM was not removed in a timely manner. Therefore, we recommend that athletic trainers practice helmet removal to be prepared should FM removal fail.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
Thermoregulatory influence of a cooling vest on hyperthermic athletes.
Athletic trainers must have sound evidence for the best practices in treating and preventing heat-related emergencies and potentially catastrophic events. ⋯ We do not recommend using the cooling vest to rapidly reduce elevated T(c). Ice-water immersion should remain the standard of care for rapidly cooling severely hyperthermic individuals.