Seizures indicate a problem in the brain where sudden, abnormal electrical activity occurs. Some seizures cause a person to shake uncontrollably, but symptoms can be much milder. Seizures can last anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes and do not cause lasting damage. Seizures that last longer than five minutes or are recurring are an emergency and require medical attention. Emergency Medical Service professionals help keep a patient safe before and during transfer to a hospital.
Clear The Scene
If you are an professional, clear the area surrounding the person. Make sure there is nothing near the patient that could fall on him or cut or bruise his seizing body. If his head is hitting a hard surface floor or ground, lay a pillow or towel underneath the head. Avoid physically restraining the patient unless it is necessary to protect him. Make sure his mouth is free of obstruction, and do not put anything in the mouth.
Protect the patient's privacy by clearing away any bystanders. If that is not possible, try to shield the patient from onlookers. Part of an EMS worker's job is to maintain the dignity of the patient.
During the Seizure
If a patient has a single seizure, wait until it ends before transporting the person. In the case that a patient has multiple seizures, begin transportation before the seizures are over. A 2001 study by researchers at the University of California in San Francisco found that seizing patients administered anti-seizure drugs in the ambulance on the way to a hospital, are more likely to be free of seizures by the time they arrive at the hospital than those not given medication. Transport the patient in a quiet environment. Flashing lights and sirens can cause additional seizures.
Post-Seizure
Once the seizure is over, survey the patient's condition. Administer oxygen, then check the patient's condition a second time. If possible, get the patient's medical history. As part of the medical history, find out if the patient has a diagnosed seizure disorder, what medications he takes and when he takes them, if the patient has any medical identification tags, any drug or alcohol abuse and if the patient has recently suffered any head, neck or spine trauma.
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