Read more about seizure safety and general first aid tips

Seizures affect millions of people worldwide and can happen to anyone at any age. Whether you encounter someone experiencing a seizure in public, at work, or at home, being prepared with the right knowledge can help you provide appropriate assistance while avoiding common mistakes that could cause harm.

Seizure First Aid Guidelines

The foundation of seizure first aid is staying calm and protecting the person from injury. When you witness someone having a seizure, your primary goal is to keep them safe until the episode passes. Most seizures last between 30 seconds and two minutes, and the person will gradually regain consciousness afterward. Key guidelines include staying with the person throughout the seizure, timing the duration, and calling for emergency medical help if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, if another seizure follows immediately, or if the person is injured, pregnant, or has diabetes. It is also important to reassure bystanders and ask them to give the person space and privacy.

Responding to a Seizure Safely

When responding to a seizure, certain actions can prevent injury and complications. First, ease the person gently to the ground if they are standing or sitting. Clear the surrounding area of hard or sharp objects that could cause harm during involuntary movements. Cushion their head with something soft like a folded jacket or your hands to prevent head injury. Turn the person onto their side in a recovery position to help keep their airway clear and allow any fluids to drain from the mouth. Loosen any tight clothing around the neck to facilitate breathing. Never attempt to restrain the person or hold them down, as this can cause injury. It is equally important to never put anything in their mouth, as this outdated practice can cause broken teeth, choking, or injury to the rescuer.

What to Do During a Seizure

During the seizure itself, your role is primarily observational and protective. Note the time the seizure begins so you can accurately report the duration to medical professionals if needed. Observe the type of movements and which parts of the body are affected, as this information can be valuable for healthcare providers. Speak calmly and reassuringly, even if the person appears unconscious, as they may be able to hear you. Remove eyeglasses if the person is wearing them to prevent breakage. Do not offer food, water, or medication until the person is fully alert and conscious. Stay with the person until they are fully aware of their surroundings and able to communicate clearly. After the seizure ends, the person may be confused, tired, or embarrassed. Offer comfort and explain what happened in simple terms.

Basic Seizure Safety Protocols

Establishing safety protocols is particularly important in environments where seizures might occur, such as homes, schools, and workplaces. These protocols should include training staff or family members in basic seizure first aid, maintaining clear pathways free of obstacles, and ensuring that emergency contact information is readily available. For individuals with known seizure disorders, wearing medical identification jewelry can provide crucial information to first responders. Creating a seizure action plan with input from healthcare providers can outline specific steps tailored to the individual’s needs, including when to administer rescue medication if prescribed. Regular review and practice of these protocols help ensure everyone responds appropriately during an actual emergency.

Understanding Seizure Emergencies

While most seizures are not medical emergencies, certain situations require immediate professional medical attention. Call emergency services if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, if the person has repeated seizures without regaining consciousness between them, if the person is injured during the seizure, if the seizure occurs in water, if the person has difficulty breathing after the seizure ends, if this is the person’s first known seizure, or if the person is pregnant, has diabetes, or has another serious health condition. Additionally, if the person does not return to their usual state within 15 to 20 minutes after the seizure, medical evaluation is warranted. Recognizing these emergency indicators can be lifesaving and ensures the person receives appropriate medical care when needed.

Common Misconceptions and Safety Reminders

Several myths about seizure first aid persist and can lead to dangerous interventions. Never put anything in the mouth of someone having a seizure, as this can cause choking, broken teeth, or injury. You cannot swallow your tongue during a seizure, so this concern is unfounded. Do not attempt to perform CPR during a seizure unless the person stops breathing after the seizure has ended. Avoid giving water, pills, or food until the person is fully conscious and alert. Do not restrain the person or try to stop their movements, as this can cause muscle and joint injuries. Understanding these misconceptions and following evidence-based guidelines ensures you provide the most effective and safe assistance possible.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.

Being prepared to respond to a seizure can help you remain calm and provide effective assistance when it matters most. By following these guidelines and understanding what to do and what to avoid, you can ensure the safety and dignity of someone experiencing a seizure.