Responding to injuries and medical conditions in a sporting context

Question 1

Responding to injuries and medical conditions in sport (pneumonic with description)

Answer 1

Stop - Stop the game and observe injury

Ask - Ask questions about the injury eg. where does it hurt

Look - Search for specific signs as bruising, swelling, bleeding etc - stop here if obvious signs and remove them from the game

Touch - Gently touch the injured area to identify painful areas and inflammation

Active movement - Can they move the injured area without your assistance

Passive movement - If there is active movement, gently move the injured area through ROM

Strength testing - Ask them to stand, put pressure on area. Ask if they are able to continue

Question 2

Acute management using PRICE

Answer 2

PROTECT
from further damage, use padding, splints, crutches

REST
Allow injury time to heal and prevent further damage (2-3 days)

ICE
Apply indirectly to the skin to decrease inflammation and pain (10 mins on, 60 mins break repeat)

COMPRESSION
Use tear tape, stretch bandages to help reduce swelling

ELEVATE
Raise above heart to reduce blood flow to the area – reducing swelling

Question 3

USING 6 R’s to recognise concussion

Answer 3

RECOGNISE
Everyone to be aware of signs and symptoms of concussion

REMOVE
If they have or suspected concussion remove from field of play immediately

REFER
refer to health care professional immediately for evaluation and treatment

REST
Reset from exercise until symptom free and not left alone for first 24 hours

RECOVER
Must fully recover and be symptom free before considering returning to play. Adults min 1 week, U18’s min 2 weeks

RETURN
Must have authorise return from health care professional