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Basic Seizure First Aid

  • Stay calm and reassure others nearby.

  • Time the seizure with your watch.

  • Clear the surrounding area (remove hard or sharp objects).

  • Don’t hold the person or try to stop his/her movement

  • If consciousness is lost, put something flat and soft, like a folded jacket, under the head.

  • Turn him/her gently onto one side as this will help keep the airway clear.

  • Loosen ties or anything around the neck that may make breathing difficult.

  • Do not force the mouth open.

  • Don’t attempt artificial respiration except in the unlikely event that the person does not start breathing again after the seizure has stopped.

  • Stay until the seizure ends naturally.

  • Be friendly and reassuring as consciousness returns. Offer to call a taxi, friend, or relative to help the person get home if he/she seems confused or unable to do this alone.

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TAKE A.C.T.I.O.N.
Quick Steps!

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Assess the Situation: Is the person in danger? Remove nearby objects.

Cushion the head for protection.

Time: Check the time. If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, call an ambulance.

Identity: Look for a medical bracelet or ID card. It may give you information about the person’s seizures and particular things to do.

Over: Turn the person on his/her side when possible. Stay and provide reassurance.

Never restrain the person, put something in his/her mouth, or try to give food or drink.

When to call an Ambulance

No Need To Call An Ambulance If:

  • Seizure ends in under 5 minutes

  • Consciousness returns without a further incident

  • No signs of injury, physical distress, or pregnancy

 

An Ambulance Should Be Called If:

  • No medical I.D. and no way of knowing whether the seizure is caused by epilepsy

  • Person is pregnant, injured, or diabetic

  • Seizure continues for more than 5 minutes

  • Seizure has happened in water

  • Second seizure starts shortly after the first has ended

  • Consciousness does not return after the shaking has stopped

 

* If the ambulance arrives after consciousness has returned, the person should be asked whether the seizure was associated with epilepsy and whether emergency room care is wanted.

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