When a seizure occurs, the main goal is to protect the person from injury. Try to prevent a fall by laying the person on the ground in a safe area. The area should be cleared of furniture or other sharp objects.
Cushion the person's head.
Loosen tight clothing, especially around the neck.
Procedure, part 2
The person should be turned on his or her side in case vomiting occurs. This keeps the vomit from being inhaled into the lungs.
Look for a medical I.D. bracelet with seizure instructions.
Stay with the person until help arrives. Meanwhile, monitor the person's vital signs (pulse, rate of breathing).
Review Date:
12/12/2008
Reviewed By:
A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Eric Perez, MD, Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Luke's-Roosevelt Hospital Center, New York, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (1/16/2007).