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Biomedical subjects

W R Whitehill

Publications and source records attributed to W R Whitehill.

5 recordsLinked to original sources
PubMed1997

Hepatitis B Immunization of Athletic Trainers in NATA District IX.

OBJECTIVE: Preventive measures for transmission of bloodborne pathogens in athletic training should include hepatitis B virus (HBV) immunization of all certified athletic training staff and all student athletic trainers. Previously, no research has been undertaken to examine if athletic training programs follow these recommendations. The intent of this study was to investigate the number of certified athletic trainers (ATCs) and student athletic trainers (SATs) in the collegiate athletic training setting who have been immunized against HBV. DESIGN AND SETTING: Surveys were sent to all four-year institutions (n=173) in the National Athletic Trainers' Association (NATA) District IX. Both certified and student athletic trainers at each institution were instructed to complete and return surveys. SUBJECTS: Certified and student athletic trainers working in four-year colleges and universities in the states (n=7) belonging to NATA District IX. MEASUREMENTS: Returned surveys were evaluated by simple descriptive statistics for prevalence of ATC and SAT immunization. Other variables examined on surveys were how immunizations were paid for, amount of contact with bloodborne pathogens, use of protective barriers when in contact with bodily fluids, and differences in immunization practices according to athletic affiliation. RESULTS: One hundred and six (61%) institutions returned 599 surveys. Of 375 SATs returning surveys, 189 (50%) identified themselves as immunized, while 168 of 223 (75%) ATCs claimed to be immunized. CONCLUSIONS: According to the findings of this study, more emphasis should be placed on HBV immunization in the collegiate athletic training setting for the prevention of infection, especially with regard to SATs.

Journal Article↗
PubMed1994

Delphi Study: HIV/AIDS and the Athletic Population.

Recent announcements in the news of HIV/AIDS contraction by famous sports figures have focused world attention on the fact that athletes are not immune to this deadly virus. In view of this, we reviewed the literature to examine what studies have been directed specifically at the athletic population and HIV/AIDS. Unfortunately, because of the relatively new nature of this problem, little data exists for examination. A panel of experts was assembled to participate in a Delphi methodology project. This educational study was designed to examine three issues surrounding the athletic community and HIV/AIDS. The three questions examined in this study were: 1) should medical testing be undertaken within the athletic community to determine exposure to the virus; 2) if testing is undertaken, what privacy/confidentiality measures should be incorporated to protect the individual and the results of the test; and 3) what educational interventions should be developed and implemented to help the athlete understand the disease and prevent the spread. The responses from the Delphi participants indicate that the HIV/AIDS dilemma is a societal issue and should not single out a segment of the population-in this case the athletic community. The panel also indicated that privacy and confidentiality are crucial in protecting the individual athlete and test results. The development and implementation of educational interventions is the most important component in the entire issue of HIV/AIDS and the athletic community.

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PubMed1992

Guidelines for dispensing medications.

Federal and state codes exist regarding administering and dispensing medications and there is variation between the two. Recognition of the differences is imperative for the athletic trainer, who has traditionally dispensed these agents in compliance with established legal and professional guidelines. Statutes that apply to classifying, documenting, prescribing, dispensing, labeling, and housing medications by athletic trainers are presented as a baseline for this article. State and local regulations should be consulted to clarify differences existing at various governmental levels. These guidelines are provided to assist athletic trainers in properly dispensing medications.

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