Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) Practice Test

What is the best method for informing athletes and their guardians of potential risks associated with high school football?

1. Delegate communication responsibility to the head coach

2. Hold individual informational meetings with each athlete and his/her family

3. Hold a voluntary group informational meeting with the parents and/or guardians of all athletes

4. Send an informational letter and consent form to the parents and/or guardians of all athletes

The correct answer is: Send an informational letter and consent form to the parents and/or guardians of all athletes

Sending an informational letter and consent form to the parents and/or guardians of all athletes is an effective method for communicating the potential risks associated with high school football. This approach ensures that the information is documented, allowing guardians to review it at their convenience. The letter can cover essential topics, including general risks, safety measures in place, and the importance of informed consent in participation. Additionally, written communication provides a clear and consistent message that can be referred back to, ensuring that all guardians receive the same information. It also creates a formal record of communication, which can be important for liability and transparency purposes. Having a consent form accompanying the letter reinforces the idea that guardians are actively involved in the decision-making process regarding their child's participation in the sport, thus fostering a sense of responsibility and awareness concerning the risks involved. This method is particularly advantageous because it accommodates the varying availability and schedules of families, making it accessible to all. While the other options also promote communication, they may not provide the same level of detailed, consistent, and documented information that a letter and consent form can achieve.