Neurological
Seizures and Epilepsy
During a seizure, protect the person from injury, time it, and never restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Afterwards, place them in the recovery position and reassure them.
During a seizure, protect the person from injury, time it, and never restrain them or put anything in their mouth. Afterwards, place them in the recovery position and reassure them.
During a seizure
- Note the time the seizure starts.
- Move objects away to protect the person from injury.
- Cushion the head with something soft (jumper, towel).
- Loosen tight clothing around the neck.
- Do NOT restrain them, hold them down, or put anything in their mouth.
- Let the seizure run its course.
After the seizure
- Follow DRSABCD.
- Place them in the recovery position.
- Manage any injuries.
- Reassure — they may be confused or drowsy for some time.
- Stay with them until fully recovered.
Call 000 if
- The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
- A second seizure follows quickly
- The person does not regain consciousness within 5 minutes
- They are injured, pregnant, diabetic, or it is their first seizure
- The seizure happened in water
Febrile convulsions (children)
Caused by fever, usually in children 6 months to 6 years.
- Roll the child on their side; do not restrain.
- Remove excess clothing.
- Do NOT cool them by sponging or bathing.
- Seek medical aid afterwards.
Questions & answers
Should I put something in their mouth?
Never. People do not swallow their tongue — putting objects in the mouth causes broken teeth and choking.
When is a seizure a 000 emergency?
First-ever seizure, lasts longer than 5 minutes, repeats without recovery, occurs in water, or the person is pregnant, injured or diabetic.
What should I do after the seizure stops?
Place them in the recovery position, reassure them as they regain awareness, and stay with them — confusion can last 30 minutes or more.
Related topics
Recovery Position
The recovery position protects the airway of an unconscious person who is breathing normally by keeping them on their side so the tongue cannot block the throat and fluids can drain.
Head Injury and Concussion
Always suspect a spinal injury with a head injury. Lay the person down, control bleeding without direct pressure on a depressed area, and call 000 for any loss of consciousness, vomiting or confusion.
Stroke — The FAST Test
Use the FAST test for stroke — Face drooping, Arms weakness, Speech slurred, Time to call 000. Every minute counts; lay the person down with head slightly raised and give nothing by mouth.
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