How to Position Someone Having a Seizure
Seizures can be a frightening and often unexpected event. When someone around you has a seizure, it’s important to know how to properly position them to ensure their safety and comfort. Here are some key steps to follow when responding to someone having a seizure.
1. Stay Calm and Time the Seizure
The first step is to remain calm. It’s natural to feel worried or scared, but panicking can make the situation worse. Once you’ve taken a moment to compose yourself, observe the seizure and try to time it. This information can be helpful to medical professionals if they arrive on the scene.
2. Keep the Person Safe
Seizures can cause the person to fall and injure themselves. As soon as you notice the seizure, gently guide them to the floor. If they are already on the ground, make sure they are lying on their side. This position helps to keep the airway clear and allows any fluid or saliva to drain away from the mouth, reducing the risk of choking.
3. Protect the Person’s Head
Use something soft, like a pillow or a folded jacket, to cushion the person’s head. This can help prevent injury if they hit their head during the seizure.
4. Loosen Tight Clothing
Remove any tight clothing or jewelry that could restrict the person’s breathing or cause injury if they were to fall. Make sure their clothing is loose enough to allow for unrestricted movement.
5. Do Not Restrain the Person
It’s important not to hold the person down or try to stop the seizure. While it may be difficult to watch, seizures usually stop on their own. Restraining the person can cause injury or make the seizure last longer.
6. Clear the Area
Move any hard or sharp objects away from the person to prevent injury. If possible, move them to a safe, soft surface, such as a carpeted floor.
7. Do Not Put Anything in the Person’s Mouth
Contrary to popular belief, you should never put anything in the person’s mouth during a seizure. This includes fingers, spoons, or any other object. They may bite down hard, and you could get bitten or cause damage to their teeth.
8. Stay with the Person
Stay with the person until the seizure ends and they are fully awake. Offer reassurance and monitor their breathing and level of consciousness. If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, or if the person does not regain consciousness after the seizure, call emergency services immediately.
By following these steps, you can help ensure the safety and comfort of someone having a seizure. Remember, most seizures are short-lived and the person will usually recover quickly. Being prepared and knowing how to respond can make a significant difference in their experience.
