Responding to injuries and medical conditions in a sporting context

Question 1

What is the protocol when someone may have a concussion?

Answer 1

The 6 r’s.

Question 2

What is the first ‘r’ stand for?

Answer 2

Recognise - the signs and symptoms of concussion by performing simple visual tests.

Question 3

What is the second ‘r’ stand for?

Answer 3

Remove - the player from the pitch / court to avoid any further injury.

Question 4

What is the third ‘r’ stand for?

Answer 4

Refer - the injured player MUST be seen by a trained medical professional (i.e. Physio/Ambulance/Doctor).

Question 5

What is the fourth ‘r’ stand for?

Answer 5

Rest - from exercise until symptom free, or for length of time recommended by doctor.

Question 6

What is the fifth ‘r’ stand for?

Answer 6

Recover - the player should be regularly assessed as full recovery from symptoms is required before return to play.

Question 7

What is the sixth ‘r’ stand for?

Answer 7

Return - the player should follow a graduated return to play protocol and return once confirmed by medical professional.