What is the nurses most important intervention for a client having a tonic clonic seizure?
Witnessing someone with epilepsy having a seizure can be truly frightening. But most seizures aren't an emergency. They stop on their own with no permanent ill effects. There isn't much you can do to stop a seizure once it starts. But there are simple steps you can take to protect someone from harm during a seizure. It's worth knowing some basic first aid -- and when it's time to call 911. Some are more dangerous than others. There are two main types: Focal onset seizures start in a single part of the brain. Their arm might start to move or their face start to twitch. And even though they're awake and aware, they can't control it. They might seem to zone out or stare at nothing as the seizure becomes complex. Afterward, they may not remember a thing. Generalized
seizures involve multiple areas of the brain at once. People are rarely aware of what's happening. The most well-known type falls in this group: the generalized tonic-clonic seizure, also known as a grand mal seizure. These are frightening to watch and can be an emergency. They have a set sequence of events: Any generalized seizure can be dangerous because
the person is unaware of their surroundings and can't protect themselves from harm. The uncontrolled thrashing movements during a generalized tonic-clonic seizure increase the chances of injury. This type is most likely to result in a trip to the emergency room. Seizure first aid is a matter of taking precautions. You're most likely to need it for a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Milder seizures -- like brief periods of staring or shaking of the arms or legs -- aren't emergencies. But you should gently guide the person away from threats. They may be in a state like sleepwalking, where traffic or stairs pose a danger. All seizure activity should be reported to their doctor.. Call 911 if the person has difficulty breathing or waking after the seizure or if the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes. SummaryRead the full fact sheet
This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by: This page has been produced in consultation with and approved by: Content disclaimerContent on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website. What is the nurse's most important intervention for a client having a tonicKeep the person SAFE. Help the person lie down, and place something soft under the head and neck. Keep the person (especially the head) away from sharp or hard objects, such as the corner of a table.
What is the priority when caring for a patient having a tonicIf you are with someone having a tonic-clonic seizure (where the body stiffens, followed by general muscle jerking), try to: Stay calm and remain with the person. If they have food or fluid in their mouth, roll them onto their side immediately. Keep them safe and protect them from injury.
What are the nursing interventions for clients having seizure?Maintain in lying position, flat surface; turn head to side during seizure activity; loosen clothing from neck or chest and abdominal areas; suction as needed; supervise supplemental oxygen or bag ventilation as needed postictally. Improve self-esteem.
What do you do if someone is having a clonic seizure?cushion their head if they're on the ground. loosen any tight clothing around their neck, such as a collar or tie, to aid breathing. turn them on to their side after their convulsions stop – read more about the recovery position. stay with them and talk to them calmly until they recover.
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