Disability: neurological status

The on-pitch baseline observation of the neurological status of the player involves the use of the ACVPU system:

• A = Alert
• C = Confusion
• V = Responding to voice
• P = Responding to pressure stimulus
• U = Unresponsive

If there is any suspicion of a spinal cord or head injury a check of the player’s peripheral neurology should be undertaken. This will also be required as part of clearing the player's spine.

Once in the medical room a more detailed neurological examination should be undertaken using the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS). This should be repeated frequently and recorded along with all observations in the primary survey to identify improvement or deterioration in the player.

In addition, there should be a quick check of the player’s eyes to see if the pupils are equal, pupil size and if they react equally to light.