Seizure First Aid: What to Do and How to Stay Prepared

Seeing someone have a seizure can be alarming, especially if it’s your first time witnessing one. Knowing how to respond safely—and what actions to avoid—can make a major difference in protecting their safety and dignity. Northern Nevada CPR provides expert First Aid and CPR training to equip you with the skills to act confidently in emergencies like seizures.

What Is a Seizure?

A seizure occurs when there’s a sudden surge of abnormal electrical activity in the brain, causing temporary changes in movement, behavior, or consciousness. The most common type is a generalized tonic-clonic seizure (previously called a grand mal seizure), where a person may collapse, convulse, and lose awareness.

How to Help Someone During a Seizure

1. Stay Calm

   Your calm demeanor reassures others and allows you to act wisely.

2. Time the Seizure

   Most seizures last 1–3 minutes. If it exceeds 5 minutes, call 911 immediately.

3. Keep Them Safe

4. Gently guide them to the ground if standing.

5. Clear the area of sharp objects or furniture.

6. Loosen tight clothing around the neck.

7. Protect Their Head

   Place something soft under their head, like a folded jacket or your hands.

8. Turn Them on Their Side

   Once convulsions stop, gently roll them onto their side to keep the airway clear and reduce choking risk.

9. Stay With Them

   Remain until they are fully awake and alert. They may feel confused or drowsy afterward—offer reassurance and comfort.

What NOT to Do During a Seizure

• Do not restrain movements.

• Do not put anything in their mouth—they cannot swallow their tongue.

• Do not give food, drink, or medicine until fully alert.

• Do not shake or try to wake them forcefully.

When to Call 911

Call for emergency help if:

• The seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.

• Another seizure occurs immediately after the first.

• The person is injured, having trouble breathing, or pregnant/diabetic.

• It’s their first seizure or they don’t regain full consciousness afterward.

After the Seizure

• Speak gently and reassure them.

• Let them rest and help them reorient.

• Stay with them if confused or drowsy.

• Document the event if needed to share with their doctor.

Be Prepared

• Ask friends or coworkers with epilepsy if they have a seizure plan.

• Learn seizure-specific first aid and CPR at Northern Nevada CPR.

• Keep emergency contacts accessible at home, work, or school.

• Recognize medical ID bracelets or other alerts that provide critical information.

Conclusion

You don’t need to be a medical professional to help someone having a seizure. Quick, calm, and informed action can prevent injury and provide comfort. Northern Nevada CPR offers hands-on First Aid and CPR training, so you’re ready to respond safely in any emergency.

Learn more and schedule a class at: www.northernnevadacpr.com

Contact: (530) 219-2723 | northernnevadacpr@gmail.com