First Aid

What a person should do if someone is experiencing a seizure is one of the most frequent queries from the general public.

There are still many misconceptions about seizure first aid, which is frequently perceived as being quite complicated. This is why one should always remember these 3 key terms:

TIME, SAFE, STAY


TIME

The seizure should be timed as soon as possible. This is because an ambulance should be contacted if a seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.

SAFE


During the seizure, make sure the victim is SAFE. If a person is convulsing, try to support their head with something soft and get rid of any dangerous objects, like furniture, from the area. NEVER hold someone down or put anything in their mouth when they are having a seizure.

Be aware that some forms of seizures do not cause convulsions in the sufferer. Instead, they might "zone out" or look blankly, show signs of confusion or agitation, engage in behaviors like chewing or lip-smacking, fiddle with their clothes, or roam aimlessly. It is crucial to carefully lead the individual away from any risk because this kind of seizure impairs the person's awareness of their surroundings. Never limit the person's movement, just as you wouldn't during convulsive convulsions.

STAY

STAY with the victim both during and after the seizure. A person with epilepsy will frequently feel disoriented and worn out after having a seizure. Be careful to stay by their side until they are fully recovered, to explain what happened, and to kindly reassure them. If the person has fallen, they may have hurt themselves, therefore make sure standard first aid procedures are followed.

Downloading our seizure first aid posters is also advised, as it covers convulsive seizures.