NFHS Emergency Response & Immediate Care

Question 1

When a student-athlete is suspected of sustaining a concussion during practice, what is the FIRST action that must be taken?

Accepted Answer

Remove the athlete from activity immediately

Answer

Allow the athlete to finish the current play

Answer

Administer pain medication to reduce discomfort

Answer

Have the athlete perform a balance test before stopping play

Question 2

Which of the following symptoms after a head impact warrants IMMEDIATE activation of Emergency Medical Services (EMS)?

Accepted Answer

Loss of consciousness, even briefly

Answer

Mild headache that resolves within minutes

Answer

Feeling 'foggy' or confused

Answer

Sensitivity to light

Question 3

An athlete shows signs of a concussion but insists they feel fine and wants to return to the game. Under NFHS guidelines, what should happen?

Accepted Answer

The athlete must be held out for the remainder of the event

Answer

Allow return if the coach approves

Answer

Allow return after a 10-minute rest period

Answer

Allow return if a parent gives verbal consent

Question 4

What is the recommended body position for an unresponsive athlete after a head injury when no spinal injury is suspected?

Accepted Answer

Recovery position (on their side)

Answer

Seated upright with head tilted back

Answer

Flat on back with legs elevated

Answer

Face down to prevent aspiration

Question 5

According to NFHS concussion protocol, who must evaluate an athlete before they are cleared to return to play after a concussion?

Accepted Answer

A licensed/certified healthcare professional

Answer

The head coach

Answer

A parent or legal guardian

Answer

The athletic director

Question 6

Which of the following is an appropriate immediate care action when a concussion is suspected?

Accepted Answer

Keep the athlete calm and prevent further physical exertion

Answer

Apply ice directly to the skull to reduce brain swelling

Answer

Give the athlete a sports drink to restore electrolytes

Answer

Encourage the athlete to 'walk it off' on the sideline

Question 7

After an athlete is removed from play with a suspected concussion, which group must be notified according to NFHS guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Parents/guardians and a healthcare professional

Answer

State athletic association and media

Answer

Only the school principal

Answer

Team physician and opposing team's staff