which of the following should you not do when a student is suffering a tonic-clonic seizure?
Which of the following should you not do when a student is suffering a tonic-clonic seizure?
Answer:
When a student is suffering from a tonic-clonic seizure (formerly known as a grand mal seizure), it’s crucial to know the appropriate steps to take for their safety and well-being. Equally important is knowing what not to do, as certain actions can cause harm. Here is a detailed guide on what you should avoid doing during a tonic-clonic seizure:
1. Do Not Restrain the Person
- Explanation:
Trying to hold the person down or restrain their movements might cause injuries. Tonic-clonic seizures involve intense muscle contractions and forcing restraint could lead to broken bones, bruises, or other physical harm. Instead, ensure the area around them is clear and safe.
2. Do Not Place Anything in Their Mouth
- Explanation:
There’s a common myth that a person having a seizure can swallow their tongue, but this is not true. Placing objects in their mouth, like a spoon or fingers, can cause serious injuries such as broken teeth, jaw injuries, or choking. Their natural reaction during a seizure may be to clench their jaw, leading to significant damage to anything in their mouth.
3. Do Not Attempt to Offer Them Food or Drink
- Explanation:
Offering food or drink to someone experiencing a seizure can lead to choking. Their ability to swallow is compromised during and immediately after a seizure, making it dangerous to introduce any substances into their mouth.
4. Do Not Leave Them Alone
- Explanation:
Leaving a person experiencing a seizure alone is dangerous. They need someone to protect them from potential hazards, monitor their condition, and provide reassurance. After the seizure, they may also be disoriented and need assistance.
5. Do Not Panic
- Explanation:
Panicking can exacerbate the situation. Staying calm helps you think clearly and act effectively. It also helps to reassure the person and any bystanders.
What You Should Do Instead:
- Ensure Safety: Clear the area of any dangerous objects and gently guide the person to the floor if they are standing to prevent falls.
- Support Head: Place something soft, like a jacket or cushion, under the person’s head to prevent head injury.
- Time the Seizure: Note the duration of the seizure. If it lasts more than 5 minutes, seek emergency medical help immediately.
- Turn Them on Their Side: Help the person roll onto their side to keep their airway clear and allow fluids to drain from their mouth.
- Stay With Them: Stay with the person throughout the seizure and until they are fully recovered, providing reassurance and support.
Final Answer:
During a tonic-clonic seizure, you should not restrain the person, place anything in their mouth, offer them food or drink, leave them alone, or panic. Instead, focus on ensuring their safety, protecting their head, timing the seizure, turning them onto their side, and staying with them throughout the episode.