IRFU Concussion Protocols
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Concussion Guidelines for the Domestic Game
These guidelines are to assist players, coaches, referees and family members to understand the importance of recognising and properly managing players with concussion.
The IRFU guidelines have been updated to reflect the latest medical advice from the 6th International Consensus Conference on Concussion in Sport which indicates that immediate removal from play, early medical assessment and early light physical and mental activity can help treat the symptoms of concussion and prevent persisting symptoms.
IRFU Guide to Concussion in Amateur Rugby Union
IRFU Guide to Concussion Wallet Card
Any player removed from play with a concussion should enter the IRFU Graduated Return to Play (GRTP) protocol. The GRTP takes a minimum of 21 days for adults and 23 days for U20s.
The GRTP guides the player through six rehabilitation stages following a concussion or suspected concussion.
There are suggested activities in each stage which may be used to gradually increase the amount, intensity and/or type of exercise that the player does in order to ensure a safe and successful return to sport. The GRTP wallet card and videos can help guide you through these activities, but the return to contact skills should be under the guidance of your coach.
Graduated Return To Play (GRTP)
The IRFU Graduated Return To Play (GRTP) protocol guides the player through the rehabilitation stages following a concussion or suspected concussion.
There are suggested activities in each stage which may be used to gradually increase the amount, intensity and/or type of exercise that the player does in order to ensure a safe and successful return to sport.
Tap or click here for GRTP Videos
Please refer to the IRFU Concussion wallet card and IRFU GRTP wallet card for information on concussion and the GRTP protocol
IRFU Guide to Concussion Wallet Card
IRFU Graduated Return To Play Wallet Card
If you would like concussion wallet cards or posters for your club or school, please email us
World Rugby Concussion Management
Consensus Statement on concussion in sport – The 6th International Conference held in Amsterdam, October 2022.
The Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 6th Edition (SCAT6)
The Child Sport Concussion Assessment Tool 6th Edition (Child SCAT6)
For information on IMPACT (a neurocognitive test that is used to help manage concussions) please click here https://impacttest.com/
Healthcare professionals working across the domestic game can request access to resources specific for medics working in rugby.
NICE guidelines on concussion: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng232
BJSM concussion blog:Â https://blogs.bmj.com/bjsm/tag/concussion/
https://www.irishrugby.ie/playing-the-game/medical/medical-links-documents/