NFHS Return-to-Play Guidelines & Recovery 2

Question 1

At which return-to-play step is the athlete first allowed to participate in non-contact training drills?

Accepted Answer

Step 4

Answer

Step 4 (Non-contact training drills) is when the athlete may participate in sport-specific exercise without contact.

Question 2

How long must an athlete be symptom-free at rest before beginning the NFHS graduated return-to-play protocol?

Accepted Answer

24 hours

Answer

An athlete must be symptom-free for at least 24 hours before initiating the graduated return-to-play protocol.

Question 3

A student-athlete completes Step 3 without symptoms but develops a headache during Step 4. What is the correct action?

Accepted Answer

Drop back to Step 3 and rest 24 hours

Answer

If symptoms return at any step, the athlete drops back one step and rests for 24 hours before reattempting that step.

Question 4

Which professional must provide written medical clearance before an athlete may advance to full-contact practice under NFHS guidelines?

Accepted Answer

Licensed healthcare professional

Answer

NFHS requires written clearance from a licensed healthcare professional before an athlete returns to full-contact practice.

Question 5

Step 2 of the return-to-play protocol focuses on which type of activity?

Accepted Answer

Light aerobic exercise

Answer

Step 2 involves light aerobic exercise such as walking or swimming, with no resistance training.

(NFHS) National Federation of State High School Associations Concussion in Sports Certification Practice Test