Board of Certification for the Athletic Trainer (BOC) Practice Test

Nausea is a key sign of a concussion following an impact due to the brain’s response to injury. When a concussion occurs, it can disrupt the normal functioning of the brain, affecting various systems, including those that control balance and coordination. This disruption can lead to symptoms such as nausea and vomiting, which are common among individuals experiencing a concussion.

The other options are less relevant in the context of concussion symptoms. For instance, lower back pain typically relates to spinal or muscular issues rather than a cranial injury. Increased flexibility is not a symptom associated with concussions and does not reflect any neurological impairment. Frequent urination is not linked to the brain injury incurred by a concussion and does not represent a neurological response. Thus, nausea stands out as a significant indicator of a concussion, highlighting the importance of monitoring such symptoms in athletes after an impact.