Seizure First Aid: How To Help Someone During A Seizure By Dr. Kerry Evans

Seizure Response Guide: Dr. Kerry Evans’ Tips For Assisting During A Seizure

Witnessing a seizure can be alarming, but understanding how to respond can make a significant difference in ensuring the person’s safety. A seizure occurs due to a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain, leading to changes in behavior, movements, or consciousness. Seizures can happen to anyone, often without warning, so it’s crucial to be prepared. Dr. Kerry Evans emphasizes the importance of knowing how to assist effectively during such an event.

Stay Calm And Ensure Safety

The first and most important step is to remain calm. Your calm demeanor will help others around you stay composed as well. Focus on ensuring the person’s safety by clearing away any sharp or hard objects from the immediate area to prevent injury. If possible, gently help the person to the ground and place something soft, like a jacket, under their head to cushion it and protect them from harm during the seizure.

Avoid Restraining The Person

It’s crucial not to restrain the person or attempt to hold them down, as this could lead to injury for both you and the individual having the seizure. Instead, try to gently turn the person onto their side. This position is beneficial as it helps keep their airway clear and reduces the risk of choking if they vomit or produce excess saliva.

Time The Seizure

Use a watch or your phone to time the duration of the seizure. Most seizures last between one to three minutes. However, if the seizure exceeds five minutes or if a second seizure follows immediately, it is important to call emergency services right away. Dr. Kerry Evans highlights that prolonged seizures can be dangerous and require urgent medical attention.

Stay With The Person Post-Seizure

After the seizure ends, remain with the person until they are fully alert and able to communicate. They may be disoriented, exhausted, or embarrassed, so providing reassurance and a calm environment is key. If it’s their first seizure or if they have sustained injuries, it’s important to seek medical care as soon as possible.

By following these steps, you can offer effective first aid during a seizure and ensure the individual’s safety. Dr. Kerry Evans encourages everyone to be prepared and informed to handle such situations with confidence.