A seizure can be an abrupt and uncontrollable electrical disturbance within the mind that may result in a number of physical and cognitive symptoms. This medical event demands swift attention and care. Dr Paul Daidone highlights the significance to be well-prepared and proficient in responding to seizures, as every moment counts in ensuring the person's safety and well-being.
Maintain Composure and Gauge the Situation
When encountering a person undergoing a seizure, it's crucial to remain composed and measure the circumstances. Dr. Paul Daidone underscores the significance of staying calm, as panic can impede your capability to react effectively. Remember that nearly all seizures are brief and self-terminate.
Prioritize the Person's Safety
Most importantly, your foremost objective during a seizure is to guarantee the individual's safety. Dr. Paul Daidone suggests the next steps:
Gently steer the person far from potential hazards, such as for instance sharp objects or staircases.
Provide a support because of their head employing a soft item just like a folded garment or a pillow to stop injury.
Loosen any constrictive clothing that will hinder their breathing.
Avoid Restraining Their Movements
Throughout a seizure, the individual's movements are involuntary and beyond their control. Dr. Paul Daidone underscores the necessity of refraining from attempts to carry them down, as it could lead to harm or heightened stress levels for both parties.
Do Not Insert Objects in to the Mouth
It is a common misconception that placing a thing in the person's mouth is necessary throughout a seizure. Dr. Paul Daidone cautions against intervening to prevent them from biting their tongue or lips. Anyone does not experience pain within a seizure, and inserting a thing might lead to choking.
Ensure a Clear Airway and Monitor Breathing
Safeguard an open airway for the individual throughout the seizure. Dr. Paul Daidone discourages inserting any objects or fingers to their mouth, which could obstruct breathing and increase the danger of choking. Instead, position them on their side to facilitate the drainage of saliva and fluids from the mouth.
Time the Seizure's Duration
Keeping track of the seizure's duration is essential. Dr. Paul Daidone explains that most seizures are relatively short, lasting anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes. However, if your seizure persists beyond 5 minutes or is closely followed closely by another seizure, it becomes a medical emergency, necessitating immediate medical attention.
Stay Present Until Recovery
Stay by the person's side until the seizure concludes. Following a seizure, the person may experience confusion or disorientation. Dr. Paul Daidone recommends providing reassurance and assistance, guiding them to a protected and comfortable position, and remaining with them until they regain full awareness.
Conclusion
Understanding how to answer a seizure is pivotal in guaranteeing the individual's safety and health. Dr Paul Daidone underscores that being prepared and knowledgeable will make a vital difference. By maintaining composure, ensuring the person's safety, keeping the airway clear, and timing the seizure's duration, you are able to effectively address this medical crisis. Remember that many seizures are brief and self-terminate, but when a seizure persists for over five minutes or is followed by another seizure, prompt medical attention is imperative. Acquiring the skills of seizure medical could be life-saving and offer essential support to those encountering seizures.