A Seizure is a temporary alteration in brain function that may produce physical convulsions, minor physical signs or thought disturbances. Some Seizures can be caused by medical conditions (such as epilepsy), physical injuries (head injuries) or illnesses (high fever in children). As a general rule no matter the cause if the seizure happens in a public place or if they have never had a convulsion before then 911 should be called. You also never want to physically restrain the person while they are in convulsions since this may cause further injury. Protecting the person from self injury is the main priority and once the convulsion stops then the priority becomes monitoring their breathing and if necessary performing CPR.
Contrary to popular believe nothing should be placed in the person’s mouth. A head tilt chin lift performed after the convulsion will keep the tongue from blocking the airway.
A person in convulsions will lose bladder control therefore maintaining privacy is also important.
As an Authorized Training Provider of the Canadian Red Cross, all First Aid Ottawa Standard and Emergency First Aid courses are recognized by WSIB and its Federal counterpart the Canada Labour code. Visit us online at www.FirstAidOttawa.com or at 613-225-2727.
