which of the following should you not do when a student is suffering a tonic-clonic seizure?

3 min read 15-01-2025

which of the following should you not do when a student is suffering a tonic-clonic seizure?

Witnessing a tonic-clonic seizure (formerly known as a grand mal seizure) can be frightening. Knowing what *not* to do is just as crucial as knowing what to do to ensure the student's safety and well-being. This article will outline crucial actions to avoid during such an event.

Understanding Tonic-Clonic Seizures

Tonic-clonic seizures are characterized by a sudden loss of consciousness, followed by stiffening of the body (tonic phase) and then jerking or convulsive movements (clonic phase). They can be frightening to witness, but understanding the episode will help you react appropriately.

Actions to Avoid During a Seizure:

Don'ts During a Tonic-Clonic Seizure:

Don't restrain the student: Trying to hold them down or restrain their movements can cause injury. Let the seizure run its course. Their movements are involuntary. Instead, protect them from injury.
Don't put anything in their mouth: This is a common misconception. Inserting objects like spoons or fingers into their mouth can cause damage to their teeth or jaw. It's extremely unlikely they'll swallow their tongue.
Don't give them liquids or food: They may be unconscious or unable to swallow safely. Wait until they are fully alert and able to respond before offering anything.
Don't try to wake them: Let the seizure end naturally. Attempting to rouse them could be distressing and even harmful.
Don't panic: While frightening, stay calm and focused. Your calm demeanor can help reassure the student and others present. A panicked response is unhelpful.
Don't leave them alone: Stay with the student until the seizure stops and they regain consciousness. Observe and monitor the situation carefully. Note the duration and any other details.
Don't administer medication unless specifically trained: Only trained medical personnel should administer medication during a seizure. If you’re not trained, don’t attempt it.

What to Do Instead:

While the above actions are crucial to avoid, it's equally important to know what steps to take. Here’s a summary of positive actions:

Protect the student from injury: Move any nearby objects that could cause harm. Cushion their head with a soft object if possible.
Time the seizure: Note the start and end times. This information is valuable for medical professionals.
Note the details: Observe and record any details of the seizure, such as body movements, aura (if any), and any post-ictal (after-seizure) behaviors.
Call for medical help: If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes, if it's the student's first seizure, or if they don't regain consciousness quickly, call emergency services immediately.
Stay with the student: Remain with the student until they are fully conscious and alert, offering reassurance and support.
Comfort and Reassure: Once the seizure has ended, speak softly and reassure the student that they are safe.

Post-Seizure Care

After the seizure, the student may be confused, disoriented, or sleepy. Allow them to rest in a comfortable position, and monitor their breathing. They might experience muscle soreness and fatigue. Encourage them to rest and seek further medical evaluation if needed.

Conclusion:

Knowing what *not* to do during a tonic-clonic seizure is vital for ensuring the safety and well-being of the student. By avoiding the actions listed above and following the recommended steps, you can help provide essential support during a potentially frightening event. Remember, your calm and informed response can make a significant difference.

**Disclaimer:** This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a medical professional for any health concerns.