How should an athlete with neck pain and numbness in the hands leave the field after a tackle?

The appropriate action for an athlete experiencing neck pain and numbness in the hands after a tackle is to apply a cervical collar and place them on a backboard. This is critical because the symptoms suggest a potential spinal injury, particularly involving the cervical spine. Immediate attention should prioritize stabilizing the individual's condition to prevent further injury, as movement could exacerbate any underlying issues, such as a fracture or a herniated disc.

Applying a cervical collar helps immobilize the neck, minimizing the risk of damage to the spinal cord during transport. Following this, placing the athlete on a backboard ensures they are transported safely, keeping the spine aligned and reducing any movement that could lead to complications.

The other methods of exit may not provide the necessary stabilization. Walking off with assistance might lead to further injury, while being carried off by teammates does not provide adequate support for the neck. Resuming play immediately places the athlete at significant risk and could have serious consequences if an undiscovered injury exists. Therefore, the outlined course of action is both a standard protocol in sports medicine and critical for ensuring the safety of the athlete.