What should be done for a casualty who is having a seizure?

For a casualty who is having a seizure, the primary concern is ensuring their safety and comfort during the episode. Protecting the casualty from injury is crucial, as seizures can cause unintentional movements that may lead to falls or collisions with nearby objects. This includes moving potentially dangerous items away from the area.

Additionally, maintaining an open airway is essential. Seizures can lead to the tongue relaxing and potentially obstructing the airway, especially if the person is unresponsive. Ensuring that they are positioned safely, ideally on their side if possible, can help prevent asphyxiation or choking.

It is important to avoid actions such as placing the person in a sitting position, as this may increase the risk of injury from falls. Restricting all movements is also not advisable, as this can lead to harm both to the casualty and the person attempting to restrain them. Similarly, offering water or food during or immediately after a seizure could pose a choking hazard, as the person may not be able to swallow properly.

These measures prioritize both the immediate safety of the casualty during a seizure and their continued care afterwards, aligning with best practices in emergency response.