Seizure first aid
Seizures are not uncommon and given the proper care can ensure that the person recovers well after a seizure.
Should you encounter someone having a seizure, the most important thing is not to panic and act irrationally. The first line of response when a person has a seizure is to provide general care and comfort while ensuring that the person is kept safe.
Key points to remember when caring for someone who is having a Seizure:
- Keep calm, and reassure other people who may be nearby.
- Call emergency services.
- Please don’t hold the person down or try to stop his/her movements.
- Time, observe and record the nature of the seizure.
- Clear the area around the individual of anything that could potentially cause injury.
- Loosen tight clothing around the neck, i.e. Neckties/Bowties and Jewellery, which could potentially restrict breathing.
- Put something flat and soft under the person’s head, like a jacket or cushion.
- Turning the individual on his/her side will help keep the airways open.
- It is NOT true that a person having a seizure can swallow his/her tongue. Forcing the individual’s mouth open with any implement or your fingers will cause severe injuries to you and the individual.
- DO NOT Attempt artificial respiration, unless, in the unlikely event, the individual does not start breathing again after the seizure has ended.
- Stay with the person until the seizure ends naturally.
- Be friendly and reassuring as consciousness returns. One can expect a period of confusion known as the Postictal phase after the seizure activity.
