Seizure

A seizure may or may not be a medical emergency. The patient who has been diagnosed with epilepsy may occasionally have a seizure. A seizure is the result of abnormal brain activity. A patient who has no history of any seizure disorder should be transported by emergency services to a hospital for a complete analysis of the situation. The major goal in response to a seizure is to prevent injury to the patient.

1. Move any items from the patient area that could be dangerous. Provide privacy for the patient.
2. Make sure that the patient’s clothing is not restricting circulation.
3. Do not restrain the patient. Do not put anything in the patient’s mouth. Monitor the airway for any excessive saliva or vomiting. Roll the patient onto the left side in a continuous motion to allow for drainage of fluids from the mouth.
4. After the seizure is over, the patient will be drowsy and the patient should be allowed to rest for a period of time until they are alert and oriented.
5. If the patient has been diagnosed with epilepsy, the physician should be notified of the seizure. The patient may need to have medications changed or blood levels checked to make sure that medications are in a therapeutic range.
6. Transport the patient to a hospital for treatment.