Which description best captures the concussion return-to-play protocol?

• A. A stepwise progression under medical supervision with clearance; monitor symptoms
• B. Rest indefinitely with no progression
• C. Immediate return-to-play after 24 hours
• D. Return to sport when athlete feels fully recovered with no medical guidance

Answer: (A)

The essential idea is a controlled, stepwise return-to-play plan guided by medical supervision. After a concussion, activity is reintroduced gradually, starting with light aerobic exercise once symptoms are gone at rest, then advancing through stages such as sport-specific drills, non-contact drills, and eventually full-contact practice, with medical clearance before moving to the next level. At each step, symptoms are monitored closely, and progression only occurs if they remain absent or have improved.

Why the other approaches don’t fit: resting indefinitely isn’t consistent with best practice, since gradual restoration of function is important for recovery. Returning to play immediately after a short period or after 24 hours ignores ongoing symptoms that may merit caution. Requiring the athlete to feel fully recovered without any medical guidance can miss subtle signs of concussion that could lead to a more serious injury if activity is resumed too soon.