Seizures are a sudden attack, usually related to excessive electrical activity in the brain. Seizures can be caused by many medical issues, including epilepsy, head injury, stroke, low blood sugar, drug use, high fever, etc.
Most seizures happen without warning, last only a short time, and stop without any special treatment. People known to have frequent seizures do not usually need to go to the hospital; If the patron’s airway is compromised or you are unsure of the situation, call 911.
SIMPLE SEIZURE - NO LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS
Can present as a staring spell, confusion, wandering aimlessly, strange behavior
- Do not restrain the person
- Guide the person away from any dangerous situations
- Comfort, calm and stay with the person until the seizure is over
COMPLEX SEIZURE - LOSS OF CONSCIOUSNESS
Can present as: person suddenly becomes stiff and falls to ground; twitching or shaking of the body (convulsions); person recovers quickly but may be confused
- Stay calm and note the time
- To avoid injury, move objects away from the person that he or she may strike
- Do not restrain the person
- Allow the seizure to run its course
- Do not put anything in the person’s mouth- there is no danger of swallowing tongue
- When the seizure is over, place the person in a recovery position
- Provide privacy to minimize embarrassment
SEIZURES IN THE WATER
- Extract patron from the water as safely and quickly as possible if able
- In unable to extract, keep face and airway above water
- Perform an initial assessment
- Assess specifically for any drowning related injuries- i.e. pulse, lack of oxygen, compromised breathing, water swallowed, aspiration, etc.
- Follow seizure protocol unless CPR is indicated. If so, move to CPR EAP