Iowa Girls' High School Athletic Union Policy on the

Presence of Blood During Athletic Contests in Grades 7-12

1. Before competing, cover any open wounds.

2. When a contest official observes an athlete bleeding during competition, competition shall be stopped on completion of the play or action in progress. Injuries creating visible bleeding shall be treated as any other injury in that the injured athletes shall be removed from the contest for the length of time specified by that sport's injury rule and given proper attention.

3. Any time a contest is stopped due to the presence of blood or body fluids, any Washable surfaces (i.e. gym floor, pool deck, equipment) contaminated shall be properly cleaned using OSHA accepted standards and procedures before competition resumes.

4. Athletes shall render first-aid to themselves or first-aid shall be administered by sideline personnel.

Game Officials' Responsibilities

In the event an athlete sustains an injury or becomes ill during a contest on the competitive surface or in close proximity such that the problem affects play or the continuation of the contest, IGHSAU officials shall take the following steps:

1. Stop the contest at the point a problem is recognized. The IGHSAU recognizes some rule books make specific statements about play interruption. Most rule books outline procedures for reducing potential for transmission of infection agents.

2. Do not administer first aid to any athlete except to comfort the athlete until those designated to administer first aid arrive.

3. Do not take part in handling blood, vomit, feces, pus or other body fluids.

4. Officials shall professionally monitor the situation as observers, keeping in mind the rule addressing interruptions, stoppage of play, starting play, and other specific rules that may apply.

5. Officials without specific qualifying training shall avoid participating in first aid treatment.

6. If through injury or illness the uniform of a contestant becomes contaminated with excessive (amount which could be easily transferred from one athlete to another ) blood body fluid, the official will disregard rule book codification on penalties for changing the participant's uniform.

The IGHSAU supports officials and coaches who are responding to a situation with the philosophy that the welfare of the injured player always comes first. We ask officials to be aware of their responsibilities and limitations as outlined above, with the understanding school personnel (coaches, trainers, etc.) are responsible to work directly with the injured or ill player.