When a seizure occurs
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What to Do If Someone Has a Seizure
Prioritise Your Safety
First Priority: Ensure your own safety before helping the person having a seizure.
Some seizures can cause the person to lash out, potentially injuring you or others. Make sure you are in a safe position before attempting to assist.
Time the Seizure
Important Action: Note the exact time the seizure started. This information is crucial for the person affected and the emergency medical services if they need to be called.
Common Misconceptions
Do Not: Place a spoon or any object in the person’s mouth. This can cause injury and does not prevent swallowing of the tongue, which is a myth.
Avoid: Trying to restrain the person. Instead, loosely support their head to prevent injury.
Maintaining Dignity
Consider: The patient's dignity. Onlookers may record the incident on mobile phones. Ask them not to, or request they call emergency services if necessary.
In some cases, the patient may lose bladder control. If possible, cover that area to maintain their dignity.
When to Call Emergency Services
Guidelines for Calling an Ambulance:
- The patient has not had a seizure before.
- The seizure continues for more than 5 minutes.
- The patient has repeated seizures or does not regain consciousness after the seizure.
- The patient is injured during the seizure.
- The patient requests an ambulance, is pregnant, or has other known medical conditions.
Remember: It is always better to dial 999 or 112 if you are unsure. The operator is trained to guide you through the situation.