1. Assess the Seizure Type
Not all seizure sufferers require first aid measures, as the episodes come in many forms. Generalized absence seizures and complex partial seizures, for example, typically cause brief periods during which an individual seems zoned out and unresponsive. Other types, however, cause convulsions, thrashing, muscle spasms, loss of consciousness and confusion. When these symptoms occur, you should assist the patient by performing first aid, preventing physical harm or calling for emergency assistance.
2. Provide Comfort and Prevent External Injury
If logistically possible, loosen a seizure patient's shirt, tie or other clothing near the neck to make him more comfortable during the episode. You may be tempted to hold him down if he's convulsing or shaking violently, but this could cause additional injury or put you in harm's way. Instead of using a restraint, scan the area and move sharp objects, furniture and other things that could cause damage if the person trips or collapses. Do your best to calm surrounding witnesses, and ask them to back away to give the seizing person room to move. Comfort the patient when the symptoms cease or he regains consciousness, speaking calmly and quietly to avoid frightening him. If you have the opportunity to time the seizure, do so. This can be helpful information for both the patient and any emergency medical personnel called to the scene.
3. Do Not Insert Objects Into the Mouth
Contrary to popular belief, seizing people cannot swallow their tongues. While they may bite their cheeks or tongues, it is not necessary to prevent this. Never place anything in a seizure patient's mouth in an attempt to keep her from swallowing or biting. If she is convulsing, you might break her tooth. She may also unintentionally bite you, so keep fingers and objects away from her mouth during the episode.
4. Roll Patient to One Side
Place a seizure patient on his side after an episode subsides to keep the airway open. Some patients vomit after seizing, and a side-lying position also prevents aspiration of vomit or other body secretions. Many people are exhausted after a seizure, going through a postictal period during which they may sleep or seem dazed. Allow them to sleep if they seem medically stable.
5. Call 911 for Emergency Assistance
While it isn't usually necessary to go to a hospital or clinic for seizure symptoms that are considered routine, prolonged, continuous convulsing, shaking or loss of consciousness may require medical intervention. If you are unfamiliar with the patient's medical history or typical seizure length, it's best to call 911 immediately. If you are comfortable handling the seizure on your own, you should still call for help if it lasts more than 5 minutes or is followed with several back-to-back episodes. You should also call for medical support if the patient does not regain consciousness within a few minutes, as she may need oxygen or another form of medical treatment. If the seizing individual was wearing a medical alert bracelet, remember to pass along relevant information to EMTs or other attending physicians.
