WHAT IS EPILEPSY?

FIRST AID FOR SEIZURES
DOs AND DONTs
RECOVERY POSITION
FACTSHEETS
do's and dont's...

In the case of an epileptic seizure you should use the below as a guide for what to do and what not to do.

DOs

  • Note the time.
  • Clear a space around the person.
  • Cushion the head (e.g. with a rolled up jacket).
  • Loosen tight neckwear.
  • Remove glasses if worn
  • Check to see if the person is carrying and ID or wearing an SOS Talisman or any Medic Alert jewellery, as this may give information about the seizure type and medication.
  • As soon as the convulsions subside, turn the person onto his/her side into the recovery position to aid breathing.
  • Clear any frothy saliva from the mouth and check the airway.
  • Reassure the person during any period of confusion which may follow

DONTs

  • DO NOT move the person while the seizure is in progress, unless he/she is in immediate danger (e.g. in a busy road, at the top of a flight of stairs, at the edge of water, or near a fire).
  • DO NOT restrict movements.
  • DO NOT attempt to lift the person up.
  • DO NOT force anything between the teeth.
  • DO NOT try to give anything by mouth.
  • DO NOT interfere unnecessarily with the person in the period immediately after the seizure. Let them recover in peace and quiet, but stay with them until any confusion has passed