Get EL2 Florida High School Athletic Association Preparticipation Physical Evaluation (Page 1 Of 2)

The examination should include blood pressure, pulse, respiration, body weight and height, visual acuity, at a minimum and could include anthropometric measures. The most common abnormalities identified include blood pressure issues and visual acuity.

The PPE history is designed to identify athletes at risk, such as those with chest pain or heaviness, palpitations, shortness of breath, fainting spells (syncope), or family history of sudden death. Any athlete with these symptoms requires full evaluation. The PPE physical examination might reveal a murmur.

Most sources agree on four essential elements – medical history, general medical examination, musculoskeletal evaluation, and athletic fitness. In addition to these major elements, other components can be included, for example, performance testing, body composition, and sport or athlete specific components.

Originally, the primary objectives of the PPE were to (1) detect life-threatening or disabling conditions, (2) identify those conditions that predispose the athlete to injury or disability, and (3) address legal and insurance requirements.

The PPE physical evaluation form guides primary care providers in conducting a system-based examination to include cardiovascular, nervous system, general medical conditions, respiratory system, gastrointestinal and urogenital, dermatological, musculoskeletal and mental health.

The Pre-Participation Exam otherwise known as the (PPE) has become a critical aspect in both sport and recreation, however currently there is no standardized instrumentation. The PPE is designed to screen for injuries, illnesses, or other factors that increase an athlete's risk for injury or illness.

When large groups of young athletes are evaluated, few are disqualified because these disorders are suspected. Rather, the most common abnormalities leading to disqualification are musculoskeletal conditions, followed by other cardiac problems.

The purpose of the PPPE is to ensure that the athlete is healthy enough to participate safely in sports.