IHSA Emergency Procedures & Response 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A cross-country runner collapses near the finish line on a hot day with a core temperature of 104°F and is confused. This presentation is MOST consistent with:
- Heat cramps
- Heat syncope
- Exertional heat stroke (Correct answer)
- Severe dehydration
Correct answer: Exertional heat stroke
Exertional heat stroke is defined by core temperature ≥104°F combined with central nervous system dysfunction such as confusion.
Question 2: Which cooling method is considered the gold standard for treating exertional heat stroke in the field?
- Ice packs to neck, armpits, and groin
- Cool misting fans
- Cold-water immersion (Correct answer)
- Removal of equipment and shade rest
Correct answer: Cold-water immersion
Cold-water immersion (CWI) is the most effective and fastest method for reducing core temperature in exertional heat stroke.
Question 3: A swimmer loses consciousness in the pool. After retrieval, she has a pulse but is not breathing. What should the coach do first?
- Begin rescue breathing immediately (Correct answer)
- Begin chest compressions
- Apply the AED pads
- Place her in the recovery position
Correct answer: Begin rescue breathing immediately
A drowning victim with a pulse but no breathing requires rescue breathing immediately to restore oxygenation.
Question 4: Under IHSA concussion protocol, when may an athlete return to full-contact practice after being diagnosed with a concussion?
- When symptoms are gone for 24 hours
- Only after completing a stepwise return-to-play protocol and receiving medical clearance (Correct answer)
- After 7 days regardless of symptoms
- When the athlete feels ready to play
Correct answer: Only after completing a stepwise return-to-play protocol and receiving medical clearance
IHSA requires completion of a graduated return-to-play protocol and written clearance from a licensed physician or ATC before full-contact return.
Question 5: During a weight-room session, a lifter drops a barbell and pins his hand. You suspect a hand fracture. The BEST immediate action is to:
- Attempt to straighten the fingers to assess alignment
- Immobilize the hand in the position found and apply ice (Correct answer)
- Have the athlete grip an object to test strength
- Wrap the hand tightly to control swelling
Correct answer: Immobilize the hand in the position found and apply ice
Suspected fractures should be immobilized in the position found to prevent further injury, with ice applied to reduce swelling.
Question 6: A coach notices a student-athlete appears to be having a tonic-clonic seizure on the sideline. Which action is CONTRAINDICATED?
- Protect the athlete's head with a folded jacket
- Time the duration of the seizure
- Insert an object into the athlete's mouth to prevent tongue biting (Correct answer)
- Clear the area of hard or sharp objects
Correct answer: Insert an object into the athlete's mouth to prevent tongue biting
Inserting objects into the mouth of a seizing person is dangerous and contraindicated — it can cause injury to teeth and the rescuer.
Question 7: Which factor MOST increases the risk of sudden cardiac arrest in young athletes?
- Mild asthma
- Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) (Correct answer)
- Overuse knee injuries
- Mild hypertension
Correct answer: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy is the leading cause of sudden cardiac death in young competitive athletes in the United States.
IHSA Emergency Procedures & Response 3
A cross-country runner collapses near the finish line on a hot day with a core temperature of 104°F and is confused.
This presentation is MOST consistent with: