| Prior to Seizure |
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| Assessed patient’s seizure history and knowledge of precipitating factors; asked patient to describe frequency, presence and type of aura (warning sensation), and body parts affected Assessed medication history Inspected patient’s environment for potential safety hazards if seizure occurred; kept bed low and side rails up, pad rails, have oral suction and oxygen equipment ready for use Place patient in a room close to nurses’ station |
| During a Seizure |
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| Protect head appropriately, turned patient onto side with head tilted forward, don’t lift patient during seizure. If in a bed remove pillow and put up side rails Note time seizure began Call for help Note where the 1st movements begin as this can give hints about where this seizure is starting in the brain Call health care provider immediately Have staff bring emergency cart Clear surrounding area of furniture Provide airway protection and gas exchange Do not restrain patient, hold limbs loosely if necessary, loosen restrictive clothing. Do not force any object into patient’s mouth Provide privacy Observe sequence and timing of seizure activity, note all relevant behaviors. These are called automatisms which are involuntary activities like lip smacking Are their eyes open? If yes determine pupil size |
| After a Seizure |
|---|
| Check vital signs and oxygen saturation every 15 minutes Maintain patent airway Check blood glucose per health care provider order Examine patient for injury Reorient patient after patient regains consciousness Provide time for patient to express feelings and concerns Instruct patient not to get out of bed without help |