A seizure involves a sudden, temporary burst of uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain, which can lead to changes in behavior, movement, or consciousness. Knowing how to respond promptly and appropriately can make a substantial difference in ensuring the safety of the individual. Understanding basic seizure first aid is important for anyone, as seizures can occur unexpectedly, and this knowledge helps protect the person from potential harm.
Understanding the Left Lateral Position
The left lateral position, often known as the recovery position, is a specific body orientation designed to maintain an open airway for an unconscious person. To place someone in this position, first kneel beside them. Extend the arm closest to you straight out from their body at a right angle, with the palm facing upward. Take their other arm and bring it across their chest, placing the back of their hand against their opposite cheek, holding it there to support their head.
Next, bend the person’s knee furthest from you, so their foot is flat on the floor. Gently pull this bent knee towards you, allowing their body to roll onto their side, facing you. Once on their side, adjust the bent leg nearest to you forward to help stabilize their position, preventing them from rolling onto their stomach or back.
Why This Position is Vital
Placing someone in the left lateral position during or immediately after a seizure is important for several reasons. This positioning helps maintain the person’s airway, which can become compromised during a seizure. When a person is unconscious, their tongue can relax and fall to the back of their throat, potentially blocking the airway. Turning them onto their side helps gravity pull the tongue forward, preventing this obstruction and ensuring continuous airflow.
Additionally, seizures can sometimes lead to increased saliva production or vomiting. In an unconscious state, there is a risk of aspirating these fluids into the lungs, which can cause choking or severe lung infections. The side-lying position allows saliva, vomit, or any other secretions to drain out of the mouth rather than being inhaled. This drainage significantly reduces the risk of aspiration. The position also provides a safer orientation during uncontrolled movements.
Essential Seizure First Aid Steps
Beyond positioning, several other essential first aid actions help protect someone during a seizure. Stay with the person and remain calm. Gently ease them to the ground if they are standing or falling, and clear the area around them of any hard or sharp objects that could cause injury. Placing something soft and flat, such as a folded jacket or hands, under their head helps cushion it from impact.
Avoid certain actions during a seizure. Never attempt to restrain the person’s movements, as this can cause injury to them or to you. Do not put anything into their mouth, including your fingers, as this can damage their teeth or jaw, and a person cannot swallow their tongue during a seizure. Unless they are in immediate danger, do not try to move them.
After the Seizure
Once the seizure activity subsides, the person may feel confused, drowsy, or disoriented. Continue to stay with them, speaking calmly and reassuringly as they regain awareness. Allow them to rest and recover at their own pace; some people may need a few minutes, while others might require longer to feel fully alert. Monitor their breathing and general condition.
Emergency medical help should be called if:
The seizure lasts longer than five minutes.
Another seizure immediately follows the first without full recovery.
The person has trouble breathing or waking up after the seizure.
There is significant injury during the seizure.
The seizure occurs in water.
It is the person’s first known seizure.