CONCUSSION - ARE YOU A HEADCASE ?

In line with the RFU's HEADCASE concussion management protocol could I please ask that you take some time to familiarise yourself with the RFU HEADCASE website all age group coaches and Team Manager's are responsible for their players health.

Please also ensure that this is signposted to all parents and players

http://www.rfu.com/headcase

http://www.irbplayerwelfare.com/?section=13

Take the HEADCASE test

http://www.rfu.com/takingpart/playerhealth/concussion/headcasequiz

[b]Coaches

If you suspect concussion YOU must REMOVE them from the field of play

[b]RECOGNISE:

It is important to realise that a player does not need to be knocked out (lose consciousness) to have had a concussion.

Players may experience a number of problems after a blow to the
head, or you may notice certain things that arouse your suspicion.

Thinking problems that the player may experience:

Does not know time, date, place, period of game, opposing team, or the score in the
game

General confusion

Cannot remember things that happened before and/or after the injury

Seems slow to answer questions or follow directions

Seems easily distracted

Not playing as well as expected

A blank stare/glassy eyed, “the lights are on but nobody is at home”

Things that the player may complain of or you see:

Knocked out

Headache

Dizziness

Feel dazed, “dinged” or stunned;

Loss of vision, seeing double or blurred, seeing stars or flashing lights

Ringing in the ears

Sleepiness

Stomach ache, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting

Poor coordination or balance, staggering around or unsteady on feet

Slurred speech

Poor concentration

Strange or inappropriate emotions (i.e. laughing, crying, getting angry easily)

Feeling generally unwell

Remember the 4 Rs

Recognise the signs and symptoms

Remove the player from play

Recover fully before returning to sport

Return only after following a Graduated Return to Play..

Take the HEADCASE test

http://www.rfu.com/takingpart/playerhealth/concussion/headcasequiz