A team at Le Bonheur Children's Neuroscience Institute is conducting one of the first nursing research studies of its kind to look at the use of helmets in preventing head injury. The study, which has been approved by the Methodist Institutional Research Board, is designed around a troubling situation Le Bonheur nurses have observed for years.

Neurosurgery Nurse Practitioner Tracy Tidwell says she has watched patient after patient come to the hospital with a neurological injury as a result of an accident involving ATV, bicycle or other recreational vehicle. Thee vast majority of those patients were not wearing helmets.

As Tidwell talked with families, she realized that many parents did not understand how important it is for children to wear helmets. She hopes this study, which provides education and a free helmet, will show a transformation in the child's behavior.

"I think there is a lack of understanding of what could happen to children if they are not wearing a helmet," Tidwell said. "I believe most people will do the right thing, if they know what it is."

During 2006, more than 100 children were admitted to Le Bonheur as a result of an ATV, bicycle, motorcycle/dirt bike or go-cart accident. The American Academy of Neurological Surgeons estimates that 21 percent of all traumatic brain injuries in children and adolescents are a result of sports and recreational activities. In fact, research published in Pediatrics has shown that helmet use may reduce the risk of nonfatal head injuries by 64 percent.

Joining Tidwell on the project is Neurosciences Service Line Administrator Jennifer Havens, Patient Care Coordinator Emily Snider and Jack Steele of Snells Orthotics & Prosthetics.

The team has a three-step approach to measuring these patients' attitudes and behaviors. First, Tidwell or Snider will ask the parents to complete a two-page questionnaire. The survey asks 13 questions including when and if helmets are worn by members of the family and friends.

Then, the patient and parents are shown a short DVD about bicycle or ATV safety. Tidwell or Snider will discuss the video and be available to answer any questions that may arise. Parents will receive a voucher for a free helmet and professional fitting from Snell Orthotics & Prosthetics. Three months later, a follow-up phone call will be made to the parents to see if the helmets are still being used.

Tidwell and the team hope that education and the free helmet will eliminate the excuses often used for not wearing a helmet. They'll report their findings next fall.