On-field Emergencies and Emergency Action Plans.

Abstract

Sideline coverage can be an enjoyable experience and provide the opportunity to witness and evaluate an athlete's pathology at the time of injury. While the majority of on-field injury will likely be of low acuity, it is essential to develop an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) to deliver excellent medical care efficiently. The EAP should provide a written, standardized multidisciplinary approach involving key personnel. The EAP should be rehearsed on at least an annual basis and should highlight the initial assessment of the patient while also accounting for the various types of trauma that may occur on the field and appropriate field extrication procedures. As most players who have a true on-field emergency will not return to same-day play, a thorough understanding of how to deliver emergency care and transfer the player to a higher level of care is essential.