A seizure is an abrupt and uncontrollable electrical disturbance within the mind that can lead to 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 experienced in answering seizures, as every moment counts in ensuring the person's safety and well-being.
Maintain Composure and Gauge the Situation
When encountering an individual undergoing a seizure, it's crucial to remain composed and gauge the circumstances. Dr. Paul Daidone underscores the significance of staying calm, as panic can impede your capability to react effectively. Remember that the majority of seizures are brief and self-terminate.
Prioritize the Person's Safety
Most importantly, your foremost objective throughout a seizure is to ensure the individual's safety. Dr. Paul Daidone suggests the following steps:
Gently steer the person from potential hazards, such as sharp objects or staircases.
Provide a pillow for his or her head utilizing a soft item like a folded garment or a cushion to avoid injury.
Loosen any constrictive clothing that will hinder their breathing.
Avoid Restraining Their Movements
During a seizure, the individual's movements are involuntary and beyond their control. Dr. Paul Daidone underscores the necessity of refraining from attempts to put up them down, as it could cause harm or heightened stress levels for both parties.
Do Not Insert Objects to the Mouth
It is a common misconception that placing an object in the person's mouth is essential within a seizure. Dr. Paul Daidone cautions against intervening to avoid them from biting their tongue or lips. Anyone doesn't experience pain during a seizure, and inserting a subject might end in 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 may obstruct breathing and increase the danger of choking. Instead, position them on the 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 many seizures are relatively short, lasting anywhere from 30 seconds to two minutes. However, in case a seizure persists beyond five full 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 before the seizure concludes. Following the seizure, the average person may experience confusion or disorientation. Dr. Paul Daidone recommends providing reassurance and assistance, guiding them to a safe and comfortable position, and remaining with them until they regain full awareness.
Conclusion
Understanding how to respond to 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 a lot of seizures are brief and self-terminate, but when a seizure persists for over five full minutes or is followed closely by another seizure, prompt medical attention is imperative. Acquiring the skills of seizure first aid may be life-saving and offer essential support to those encountering seizures.