Recognition

If any of the following signs or symptoms are present following an injury the player should be suspected of having a concussion and immediately removed from play or training.

IF IN DOUBT, SIT THEM OUT.

Any one or more of the following visual clues can indicate a concussion:

• Dazed, blank or vacant look
• Lying motionless on ground / slow to get up
• Unsteady on feet / balance problems or falling over / Incoordination
• Loss of consciousness or responsiveness
• Confused / not aware of plays or events
• Grabbing / clutching of head
• Seizure (fits)
• More emotional / irritable than normal for that person

Presence of any one or more of the following signs & symptoms may suggest a concussion:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Mental clouding, confusion, or feeling slowed down
• Visual problems
• Nausea or vomiting
• Fatigue
• Drowsiness / Feeling like “in a fog“ / difficulty concentrating
• “Pressure in head”
• Sensitivity to light or noise

These should be tailored to the particular activity and event, but failure to answer any of the questions correctly may suggest a concussion. Examples with alternatives include:

• "What venue are we at today?” or “Where are we now?”
• "Which half is it now?” or “Approximately what time of day is it?”
• “Who scored last in this game?” or “How did you get to here today?”
• “What team did you play last game?” or “Where were you on this day last week?”
• “Did your team win the last game?” or “What were you doing this time last week?”