OCR General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) Biology Practice Exam

What is the purpose of compression in the RICE method?

1. To immobilise the joint completely

2. To reduce swelling by wrapping the injured area

3. To enhance blood flow to the injury

4. To increase flexibility

The correct answer is: To reduce swelling by wrapping the injured area

The purpose of compression in the RICE method, which stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation, is primarily aimed at reducing swelling in the injured area. By applying compression, you create a consistent pressure on the swollen tissue, helping to limit the accumulation of fluid that often occurs following an injury. This pressure also helps to stabilize the injured area, which can minimize further injury and promote a more efficient healing process. While immobilization of the joint may be a component of injury management, the specific role of compression is focused on managing swelling. Similarly, enhancing blood flow and increasing flexibility are not direct objectives of compression; instead, those considerations relate to recovery and rehabilitation phases after the initial acute injury management. Thus, compression serves a targeted purpose in effectively addressing inflammation and swelling.