Concussion Guidelines in the GAA

Concussion is a brain injury that needs to be taken seriously to protect the long term welfare of all players. Any player suspected of having sustained a concussion, should be removed immediately from the field and should not return to play on the same day. Where a Team Doctor is present, he must advise the person in charge of the team (i.e. Team Manager) in this regard and the player must not be allowed to continue his participation in the game. Concussion is an evolving injury. It is important to monitor the player after the injury for progressive deterioration. Concussion diagnosis is a clinical judgement – Use of the SCAT 3 can aid the doctor in his /her diagnosis. Players suspected of having a concussion, must have adequate rest of at least 24 hours and then must follow a gradual return to play protocol