If someone is having a seizure, the most important actions to take are to keep them safe, prevent injury, and provide reassurance once the seizure ends. Key steps include:
- Clear the area of anything harmful.
- Lay the person on their side to keep the airway clear and prevent choking.
- Cushion their head with something soft.
- Remove eyeglasses and loosen tight clothing around the neck.
- Do not restrain their movements or put anything in their mouth.
- Time the seizure, especially if it lasts longer than 5 minutes.
- Stay with the person until they are fully awake and recovered.
- Call emergency services if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, if another seizure follows quickly, if they have trouble breathing or waking, if injured, or if it is their first seizure.
After the seizure, offer comfort and allow them to rest, but do not give food or drink until fully alert. People may wear medical bracelets with emergency info, which can guide care.
