First Aid Measures for Childhood Seizures

When a child experiences a seizure, there may be a risk to their life. Symptoms often include sudden collapse, bluish lips, frothing at the mouth, head thrown back, and convulsions or stiffness in the limbs. It is essential for caregivers to know the appropriate emergency response. Below are the commonly recommended first aid measures to take during a seizure.

Stabilize Vital Signs

During a seizure, one of the primary concerns is maintaining the child's vital signs, such as breathing and heart rate. While most children do not experience severe complications during a seizure, they may temporarily turn blue or stop breathing for a short period, usually resolving within 1-2 minutes. In most cases, the episode is brief and not life-threatening, so caregivers should remain calm and monitor the situation closely.

Protect the Child from Injury

During a seizure, a child may suddenly fall from a bed or other surface and risk injury. Additionally, they may experience convulsions that could lead to accidental impacts to the arms or legs. There is also a risk of biting the tongue or jaw. Parents should be aware of how to prevent these injuries.

Positioning the Child

If the child experiences a generalized tonic-clonic seizure (commonly known as a grand mal seizure), it's important to lay them on a soft, flat surface and gently turn their head to one side or place them in a side-lying position. This helps keep the airway clear and prevents choking on saliva or vomit.

Preventing Tongue Biting

If the child begins to bite their tongue, caregivers can place a soft object, such as a folded cloth or gauze, between the teeth to prevent further injury. However, it's important not to completely block the mouth, as this could interfere with breathing. A soft, appropriate item can be placed between the upper and lower teeth, and the caregiver should hold it in place to avoid the child swallowing it, which could cause choking.

Monitor the Duration of the Seizure

In most cases, seizures last only 2 to 5 minutes and do not cause brain damage. Providing a safe environment and ensuring the child doesn't injure themselves during this time is the best course of action. However, if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, it is considered a medical emergency, and emergency services should be contacted immediately by calling 911 or the local emergency number. The child should then be transported to the nearest hospital for further evaluation and treatment.