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Concussion Management

World Rugby Concussion Guidance

The World Rugby Recognize and Remove message incorporates 6 Rs

 

Recognize
Learn the signs and symptoms of a concussion so you understand when an athlete might have a suspected concussion.

 

Remove
If an athlete has a concussion or even a suspected concussion he or she must be removed from play immediately.

 

Refer
Once removed from play, the player should be referred immediately to a qualified healthcare professional who is trained in evaluating and treating concussions.

 

Rest
Players must rest from exercise until symptom-free and then start a Graduated Return to Play. World Rugby recommends a more conservative return to play for children and adolescents.

 

Recover 
Full recovery from the concussion is required before return to play is authorized. This includes being symptom-free. Rest and specific treatment options are critical for the health of the injured participant.

 

Return 
In order for safe return to play in Rugby, the athlete must be symptom-free and cleared in writing by a qualified healthcare professional who is trained in evaluating and treating concussions. The athlete completes the GRTP (Graduated Return to Play) protocol.

CDC's HEADS UP Concussion in Youth Sports

To help ensure the health and safety of young athletes, CDC developed the HEADS UP Concussion in Youth Sports initiative to offer information about concussions to coaches, parents, and athletes involved in youth sports. The HEADS UP initiative provides important information on preventing, recognizing, and responding to a concussion.

http://www.cdc.gov/headsup/youthsports/index.html