NATA Now

This blog is the first of a weekly series we’ll be running during National Athletic Training Month to highlight different aspects athletic trainers should consider as they strive to provide “compassionate care for all.” The slogan for National Athletic Training Month 2018 comes directly from the first principle of the NATA Code of Ethics.

The focus of the March NATA News is “Compassionate Care for All,” the theme of the 2018 National Athletic Training Month, which kicked off March 1. In addition to articles discussing the words we use and why they matter, the issue includes an infographic handout on cultural competence.

In honor of National Volunteer Month, held each April, NATA thanked its many volunteers and highlighted why a few decided to give back in the March NATA News. If you’re interested in joining the hundreds of volunteers who help the association, learn more about NATA’s various volunteer opportunities and get involved. Here is a continuation of our volunteer Q&A:

By Tamara C. Valovich McLeod, PhD, ATC, FNATA, Professor and Director, Athletic Training Programs, John P. Wood D.O. Endowed Chair for Sports Medicine Research Professor, School of Osteopathic Medicine in Arizona A.T. Still University

The NATA Public Relations Committee has developed targeted PR packages to assist ATs with promoting the profession and connecting with external stakeholders during National Athletic Training Month (NATM). The 2018 theme is “Compassionate Care for All.” Each package will focus on a specific target audience including the marketing, communications or PR department at your workplace, risk management/human resources, government officials and workplace and community stakeholders.

A recent high profile sexual abuse and misconduct case in athletics and a subsequent bill that details new reporting requirements, passed in both the U.S. House and Senate, have prompted many organizations to take action to help protect others from these types of horrific and unconscionable actions.

Exertional rhabdomyolysis, an excessive breakdown of muscle fiber during physical activity, is a dangerous health and safety issue – and one that is preventable. To shine a light on exertional rhabdomyolysis, NCAA Chief Medical Officer Brian Hainline, MD, has issued guidelines that athletic trainers can use to prevent this life-threatening occurrence from taking place.

Build relationships with other local health care professionals.

The January NATA News featured an article by the Transition to Practice Workgroup, detailing its findings in relation to helping athletic trainers successfully transition into the field of their employment. The article discussed various aspects of transitioning to practice and recommendations for the individual, employer and professional education program.

By Timothy Neal, MS, ATC, CCISM