Identification of Essential Skills for Entry-Level Athletic Trainers Using the Delphi Method

Abstract

Athletic trainers enter the workforce with the skills taught to them using the Competencies developed by their accrediting body. These Competencies are developed using data collected from athletic trainers in the field with no input from the consumers of athletic training services. Six experts completed a three‐round questionnaire, and created a duty task list (DTL). The participants gave a clear conceptualization of the essential skills needed for an entry‐level athletic trainer.

A Mixed Methods Approach to Identifying Administration Issues Pertinent in Interscholastic Sports

“…According to the National Athletic Trainers' Association (2017), the services and practices by athletic trainers include "… injury and illness prevention, wellness promotion and education, emergent care, examination and clinical diagnosis, and therapeutic intervention and rehabilitation of injuries and medical conditions" (Para 3). A Delphi study implemented by Aldret (2018) sought to identify the perspectives of athletic trainers toward the necessary responsibilities and skills in their profession. The most common responses for tasks were "Understands return to play criteria vs. referral criteria" and "Uses proper techniques to minimize professional liability" (Aldret, 2018).…”

“…A Delphi study implemented by Aldret (2018) sought to identify the perspectives of athletic trainers toward the necessary responsibilities and skills in their profession. The most common responses for tasks were "Understands return to play criteria vs. referral criteria" and "Uses proper techniques to minimize professional liability" (Aldret, 2018). Regarding skills, communication with coaches, parents, and athletes, as well as ability to act composed under pressure, were noted by all participants (Aldret, 2018).…”

“…The most common responses for tasks were "Understands return to play criteria vs. referral criteria" and "Uses proper techniques to minimize professional liability" (Aldret, 2018). Regarding skills, communication with coaches, parents, and athletes, as well as ability to act composed under pressure, were noted by all participants (Aldret, 2018). Having an athletic trainer on staff alleviates the pressure of coaches and athletic administrators to diagnose or make health care decisions for injured athletes, who are often not qualified in the medical field and could potentially put the student's life at risk (Dewitt, Unruh, & Seshadri, 2012).…”