A Retrospective Cohort Study of the Temporal Stability of ImPACT Scores Among NCAA Division I Collegiate Athletes
Date of Award
2019
Document Type
Doctoral Research Paper
Degree Name
Psy.D.
Organizational Unit
Graduate School of Professional Psychology
First Advisor
Kim A. Gorgens
Second Advisor
Bradley Davidson
Third Advisor
Laura Meyer
Fourth Advisor
Marybeth Lehto
Keywords
Concussion, Division I, NCAA, ImPACT, Psychometrics, Temporal stability, Test-retest reliability
Abstract
Objective: This study examined the temporal stability of the Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Test (ImPACT) within NCAA Division I athletes across various timepoints.
Method: Within a retrospective cohort design, 48 athletes completed repeated baseline ImPACT assessments at various timepoints. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated using a two-way mixed effects model with absolute agreement. Additional facets of temporal stability were explored via Limits of Agreement (LOA), Bland-Altman Plots, Minimal Detectable Change (MDC), and Reliable Change Indices (RCI).
Results: Four ImPACT composite scores (Verbal Memory, Visual Memory, Visual Motor Speed, and Reaction Time) demonstrated moderate reliability (ICC = 0.51-0.66) across the span of a typical Division I athlete’s career. No evidence of fixed bias was detected within Verbal Memory, Visual Motor Speed, or Reaction Time composite scores, and MDC values exceeded the limits of agreement.
Conclusions: ImPACT psychometrics support the NCAA’s recommendation to obtain a single pre-participation cognitive baseline for use in sports-related concussion management throughout an athlete’s career. Clinical interpretation guidelines are provided.
Publication Statement
Copyright held by the author. Permanently suppressed.
Extent
39 pgs
Recommended Citation
Mason, Sara, "A Retrospective Cohort Study of the Temporal Stability of ImPACT Scores Among NCAA Division I Collegiate Athletes" (2019). Graduate School of Professional Psychology: Doctoral Papers and Masters Projects. 357.
https://digitalcommons.du.edu/capstone_masters/357