Psychometric properties and reference values for the ImPACT neurocognitive test battery in a sample of elite youth ice hockey players

Arch Clin Neuropsychol. 2014 Mar;29(2):141-51. doi: 10.1093/arclin/act116. Epub 2014 Jan 2.

Abstract

This cross-sectional study aimed to determine psychometric properties and reference values for ImPACT in a sample of 704 elite ice hockey players aged 13-17. Baseline ImPACT tests were completed at the beginning of the 2011-2012 season. Players aged 16-17 had better visual motor processing speed, adjusted R(2) = .0522, F(2, 45) = 10.79, β = 2.87, p < .001, and impulse control, adjusted R = .0185, F(2,45) = 7.46, β = -1.35, p = .001, than younger players, and girls had greater total symptom ratings than boys (z = -3.47, p = .0005). There were no other sex- or age-related differences in neurocognitive performance, and no effect of previous concussion on ImPACT scores. Reference values with cut-off scores are presented.

Keywords: Concussion; Ice hockey; Neurocognitive assessment; Pediatric.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Age Factors
  • Brain Concussion / diagnosis*
  • Brain Concussion / etiology
  • Cognition Disorders / diagnosis*
  • Cognition Disorders / etiology
  • Cohort Studies
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Hockey / injuries*
  • Hockey / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neuropsychological Tests*
  • Psychometrics*
  • Psychomotor Performance / physiology
  • Reference Values
  • Self Report
  • Sex Factors