Injury once diagnosed
Fordingbridge RFC First Aid Policy 3 of 9

3. Injury once diagnosed


Once the injury has been diagnosed, avoid any element of HARM for 72 hours.
Heat - Can increase bleeding and swelling and worsen pain and stiffness.
Alcohol - Can increase bleeding and swelling as well as masking pain and the severity of the injury.
Running - Rest is essential.
Massage - Best avoided as it can increase bleeding and swelling, thereby delaying recovery.
Bleeding
When treating any player, gloves should be worn to protect the player and the first-aider from possible transmission of blood borne diseases such as HIV and hepatitis. Blood must not be transferred from one player to another and as such ALL blood injuries must be treated and covered before a player can return to the game. Any items that have been contaminated by blood must be sealed in a plastic bag and safely discarded.
Major bleeding must be treated as soon as possible to reduce the flow of blood, as this may be enough to preserve a life. Apply direct pressure to a wound first and only apply indirect pressure if this is not possible. Arrange urgent transport to a hospital or doctor’s surgery.