Concussion
Fordingbridge RFC First Aid Policy 2 of 9

2. Concussion


A Player who has suffered a confirmed concussion will not play or undertake contact training for a minimum of 2 weeks following cessation of symptoms. Children must have returned to school or full studies before recommencing exercise and must have been declared fit after proper medical examination. Such declaration must be recorded in a written form by the person who carried out the medical examination of the player. In age grade Rugby, our club will follow the 2 week minimum period as mandatory and the Graduated Return to Play.
Please refer to IRB Concussion Guidelines:
and RFU Headcase Guidelines and protocols
The following guidance may be of assistance in recognising concussion. It must be acknowledged however, that each incident must be assessed on its individual merits and characteristics. It should be noted that the symptoms of concussion can present at any time but typically become evident in the first 24-48 hours following a head injury. They may include the following:
• loss of consciousness
• loss of memory, confusion and disorientation
• double or blurred vision
• giddiness or unsteadiness
• vomiting and headache
All first aid kits should have updated Headcase cards to provide the parents of any player who has a suspected concussion.
Fordingbridge RFC requires all players who are following the Graduated Return to Play procedures to complete the players' online concussion training.
Playing Consequences
If a player shows any signs of concussion he/she must not be allowed to continue playing or to return to the game. The player must be evaluated by a medical practitioner.