POLICE Protocol for Sports Injuries

In groups of four, students apply the POLICE protocol (protection, optimal loading, ice, compression, elevation) to sprain and bruise scenarios from their own PE class. Students learn how to act in the first minutes and how to plan a gradual return to activity.

How to play

1. Explanation (4 min): each letter of the protocol with an example, and how it differs from total rest: optimal loading means pain-free movement as soon as possible.
2. Groups of 4 on a mat. The teacher gives each group a scenario card, like a rolled ankle on a jump landing or a thigh bruise.
3. Response (5 min): protect the area, pretend to ice it with a folded towel, apply a light compression wrap, and elevate the limb on a backpack.
4. Optimal loading (6 min): the group designs three gentle exercises for the following days, like pain-free ankle circles or supported balance, and tries them.
5. Rotation and share-out (7 min): groups swap scenarios twice, and at the end each group explains its return-to-activity plan in 1 minute.

Rules

• Safety: wraps go on loosely and come off after each scenario.
• Optimal-loading exercises never cause pain.
• Deformity or severe pain means a possible fracture and a call to 911.
• Ask permission before touching a partner.

Variations

Adaptations

• Limited mobility: coordinate the group and read out the protocol steps.
• Students with autism: a card showing the protocol letters as picture symbols.
• Shy students: act as rescuer or plan writer instead of presenting.

Learning goals

• Apply the POLICE protocol to a soft-tissue injury.
• Tell when an injury needs urgent care.
• Design progressive loading exercises for recovery.

Equipment for a class of 25

• elastic wraps: 7
• scenario cards: 7
• mats: 7
• cones: 7

Teacher tip

Correct the belief that it's best not to move for weeks. Use real examples from the school year so students see the immediate value.

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