Clear hard objects away during a seizure
During a seizure, lay the person safely on the ground, clear away hard or sharp objects, cushion the head, and call emergency services if it lasts over 5 minutes.
What it costs
Immediate attention and a clear, safe area; the first-aid response itself costs no money.
What you get
Lay the person on the ground in a safe area, clear away furniture or other sharp objects, cushion the head, and loosen tight clothing around the neck. Turn the person on their side in case vomiting occurs, stay with them until help arrives, and monitor their vital signs.
Notes
MedlinePlus says most seizures last from 30 seconds to 2 minutes and that a seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes is a medical emergency. The current MedlinePlus first-aid presentation does not state a rule about putting an object in the person's mouth, so that advice is not included here. Call the local emergency number for a seizure lasting longer than 5 minutes or for repeated seizures without waking between them.
Sources
- MedlinePlus — Seizures