2. Seizure First Aid¶
This is the most important chapter for anyone who works with students. You do not need to be a nurse to keep a student safe during a seizure. Practice it in the Seizure First Aid Simulator.
The three S's: STAY, SAFE, SIDE¶
STAY¶
- Stay with the student and time the seizure (look at a clock the moment it starts).
- Stay calm. Keep other students back and give the person room.
- Move hard or sharp objects away.
SAFE¶
- Keep them safe without restraining. Do not hold them down.
- Do not put anything in their mouth. (You cannot swallow your tongue; objects can cause injury or choking.)
- Cushion the head with something soft. Loosen anything tight around the neck.
SIDE¶
- Once the movements allow, gently turn the student onto their side. This helps them breathe and lets saliva drain.
- Stay with them through the recovery (postictal) phase. They may be confused, tired, or embarrassed. Reassure them calmly until they are fully aware.
When to call 911¶
Call 911 if any of these are true:
- A convulsive seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
- Seizures repeat without the person fully recovering in between.
- The person has trouble breathing or does not return to normal.
- The seizure happens in water, or there is a serious injury.
- It is the person's first known seizure, or you are unsure.
- The student's seizure action plan says to (it may also direct rescue medication).
Follow the student's plan
If a student has a seizure action plan on file, it takes priority. It may specify rescue medication and a different time threshold for calling 911. Know where plans are kept.
What NOT to do¶
- Do not put anything in the mouth.
- Do not restrain or hold the person down.
- Do not give food or water until they are fully alert.
- Do not leave them alone until recovered.
After the seizure¶
- Note how long it lasted and what you observed (this helps the nurse and family).
- Let the student rest; offer privacy and reassurance.
- Notify the school nurse and follow your school's reporting process.
Get certified (free)¶
Free, on-demand training and a 2-year Seizure First Aid Certification are available from the Epilepsy Foundation: https://www.epilepsy.com/programs/training-education