Medical emergency card for seizure attack

Children with epilepsy lead active, fulfilling lives, just like other children. They may go to school, attend therapy sessions, visit friends, or travel with extended family. However, during these moments, they might not always be around their immediate caregivers or family members who are well informed about their medical history.

In such situations, it becomes extremely important for the child to carry a medical emergency card for seizure attacks. This small but vital tool can make a big difference in ensuring your child’s safety, especially when they are in the care of others or surrounded by new people.

What is a Seizure Emergency Card?

A Seizure Emergency Card (or Seizure ID) is a simple document that includes important medical information about your child. It serves as a quick reference for teachers, caregivers, neighbours, or even strangers who may be with your child during a seizure episode.

The card helps people act quickly and appropriately by providing clear instructions on what to do and what not to do during a seizure. Having this card ensures that your child gets the right kind of help without delay, especially when professional medical assistance is on its way.

What the Seizure ID should include

The information on the card should be clear, brief, and easy to understand. Here are some important details to include:

1. Child’s name and age
   This ensures that the person helping can identify your child immediately.

2. Emergency contact information
   Include the phone numbers of parents, guardians, or caregivers who can be reached at any time.

3. Diagnosis and medical details
   Mention that your child has epilepsy and specify the type of seizures they experience, if known.

4. First-Aid instructions
   Clearly list what to do during a seizure. For example:
   
   • Keep the child safe by moving sharp or hard objects away.
   • Turn them gently to one side to keep the airway clear.
     
   • Do not put anything in their mouth.
   • Track the duration of the seizure.
   • Call for emergency help if it lasts longer than five minutes.

5. Current medications
   Include the names and dosages of any medications your child takes regularly.

6. Doctor’s information
   Add the contact details of your child’s Pediatric Neurologist or healthcare provider.

7. Allergies or other conditions
   Note any important medical allergies or conditions that medical staff should know about.
   

It is helpful to laminate the card or keep it in a protective cover so it can be carried easily and last longer.

Keeping the card updated

It is essential to ensure that your child’s medical emergency card is always up to date. Each time there is a change in medication, dosage, or emergency contacts, remember to update and print a new version of the card. Encourage your child to carry it wherever they go, whether it is to school, therapy sessions, or outings with friends.

You can also share copies of the card with your child’s teacher, school nurse, or bus attendant. This allows everyone involved in your child’s daily routine to respond quickly and effectively in case of a seizure emergency.

Preparing yourself and others

While the emergency card helps in unexpected situations, preparing yourself and others around your child is equally important. Take time to talk to your child’s teachers, friends, and caregivers about what epilepsy is, how seizures appear, and what to do if one occurs.

You can prepare yourself further by asking your child’s Pediatric Neurologist all the questions you need answers to about your child’s seizures. Understanding your child’s condition helps you support them better and feel more confident in handling emergencies.

We also recommend watching our video on first-aid guidelines during a seizure attack which provides step-by-step guidance for caregivers and families.

Acknowledgements

We sincerely thank our volunteers Ms. Sailaja Tadimeti and Mr. Krishnaji Devalkar for their time and effort in translating this content from English to Telugu.
We also thank Ms. Prerana Chouk and Ms. Hemanta Nijhawan for their translation of this content into Hindi. Their contributions help make this important resource accessible to many more families across India.

Need more support?

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Disclaimer

Please note that this medical emergency card template for seizure management is for information purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for safe and appropriate medical advice and care for your child.