Seizure First Aid

Absence

• This type of seizure does not usually require any first–aid
• Reassure the person when the seizure is finished

Tonic-Clonic

• Move harmful objects away
• Place something soft under the head and shoulders
• Do not put anything in the mouth
• Do not restrain
• As soon as possible after the seizure has stopped roll the person onto their side to assist breathing
• When the seizure is over the person may be confused
• Reassure them until they are fully aware of their surroundings

Call an ambulance (000) if

• The active or jerking movements of a tonic–clonic seizure last for more than 5 minutes
• Another seizure quickly follows
• The person has been injured, or
• If you are in doubt

Complex Partial

• Stay with the person and speak calmly in an attempt to affect their behaviour
• Do not restrain or try to stop activity unless it is dangerous
• Reassure the person until they are aware of their surroundings and offer assistance to get home.

Call an ambulance (000) if

• The person has not begun to recover from a complex partial seizure in 10-15 minutes
• Another seizures quickly follows
• The person has been injured,
• Or you are in doubt.

This information provided by the Epilepsy Association of South Australia Inc on the Internet is designed to provide basic information about epilepsy. It is not intended, nor does it constitute medical or other professional advice. Diagnosis and advice on medical care or other assessments should be sought from a medical practitioner or suitably qualified professional.