Summary of Changes to Concussion Policy and Management Guidelines
Summary of Changes to Policy
72 Hour Assessment Window
Timing is everything. Doctors typically use a tool called SCAT6 to assess players. It works best when used within 72 hours of the injury—after that, research indicates it gets harder to spot the signs of concussion accurately. This aims to further safeguard players and prevent misdiagnoses.
NRL/State League CMO Right to Enforce Stand-down
Player safety is the top priority. If there’s strong evidence (like video footage, loss of consciousness, or seizures) the NRL and/or State League Chief Medical Officers (CMOs) have the power to enforce a stand-down period for players who show clear signs of a probable concussion—even if they’ve been medically cleared afterwards. This means:
- The player must follow the Return to Sport (RTS) strategy, which includes a gradual return to play and another medical clearance.
- They won’t be available for selection in MySideline until they’ve completed the RTS process.
Summary of Changes
Define All-Game Day Roles
If a player is marked as Unavailable in MySideline, they can’t be added to a team sheet on game day—this includes not just playing roles but also support roles like LeagueSafe. This update supports players through Stages 1–4 of the Return to Sport (RTS) strategy. Once a player has successfully completed Stage 4 and received medical clearance, they can take on any game day role they’re accredited for.
Management of Unconscious Player
Guidance when an unconscious player, who may have a spinal injury, can be moved by someone other than a trained medical professional (e.g., Ambulance Officer, Paramedic) in line with the NRL Neck Injury and Cervical Collar Policy
Summary of Changes to Policy
Hydration, Sleep, Reducing Stress and Anxiety
Details have been added on the benefits of hydration – helps maintain brain function, quality sleep – critical for brain repair and reducing inflammation, and the reduction of stress and anxiety in aiding a smoother recovery and preventing the exacerbation of symptoms when managing a concussion.
Multiple and Concerning Concussions
When it comes to multiple and concerning concussion, instead of talking about “seasons,” it is now defined in time period’s ie. 3 and 12-month period’s. Using actual timeframes rather than seasons is Guided by the AIS Concussion and Brain Health Position Statement and better safeguards players.
Summary of Changes to Policy
Advanced Care Setting
More clearly defining Advanced Care Settings will help State League and competition administrators run Pathways and Elite competitions in line with the NRL On-Field Policy. It also sets out the minimum stand-down period for players aged 18 and under, in Pathways and Elite competitions.
Concussion Policy and Management Guidelines
Concussion Policy and Management Guidelines
View the policy and guidelines.
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