First aid guidelines during a seizure episode – video by Dr.Sivaranjani

What is the first and most important thing to do when you spot a person having a seizure?

The very first and most important thing to do when you see someone having a seizure is do not panic. It can be frightening to witness, especially if it happens suddenly or involves a child you care about. However, staying calm allows you to respond safely, protect the person, and provide the right support. Seizures are a neurological event, not a failure of the body or mind, and most seizures stop on their own within a few minutes.

Dr. Sivaranjani’s video on seizure first aid explains simple, practical steps that anyone can follow to help a person during a seizure episode. Being informed and prepared can make a real difference, not only for safety but also for the dignity and comfort of the person experiencing the seizure.

What to do during a seizure

If a person starts having a seizure while standing or sitting, gently guide them to the ground if it is safe to do so. You cannot stop a seizure once it has begun, but you can reduce the risk of injury.

• Help the person lie down on a flat surface
  
• Move sharp or hard objects away from them
• Place something soft like a folded cloth, pillow, or bag under their head
  
• Loosen tight clothing around the neck
  
• Stay with the person and note the time the seizure started
  

Do not try to restrain their movements. Allow the seizure to run its course while you focus on keeping them safe.

After the seizure ends

Once the seizure stops, the person may be confused, tired, or disoriented. This is a normal part of recovery.

• Check that the person is breathing normally

• Make sure there is nothing blocking their mouth

• Gently turn them into the recovery position
  

To place someone in the recovery position, extend their left arm, bend the right arm, and gently roll them onto their side so their head is supported by the right hand. This sideways position helps keep the airway open and allows saliva or vomit to drain safely.

Stay with the person and continue to monitor them. Call an ambulance and wait for medical help to arrive. If the person is not breathing after the seizure ends, begin CPR if you are trained to do so.

If you suspect a spinal injury, do not move the person unless absolutely necessary. In such cases, focus on monitoring their breathing and keeping them safe until emergency services arrive.

Seizures in infants and young children

In infants and very young children, seizures can sometimes occur during episodes of high fever. These are often called febrile seizures. If your child is under six years of age and has a fever, it is important to manage the fever promptly using medication advised by your paediatrician and seek medical guidance.

For infants having a seizure:

• Remove tight clothing

• Do not restrain the baby

• Wait for the seizure to pass

• Place the baby in the appropriate recovery position as shown in the video
  

Always consult your paediatrician for follow-up care and guidance.

What not to do during a seizure

There are several common myths about seizures that can actually cause harm.

• Do not place a key or any object in the person’s hand

• Do not put a spoon or any object into the mouth

• Do not insert your fingers into the mouth to remove anything

• Do not splash cold water on the person
  

These actions can block the airway, cause injury, or trigger another seizure. If there is something visible and easily removable from the mouth after the seizure ends, you may gently remove it. Otherwise, leave it alone.

Reassurance for caregivers and bystanders

If you ever find yourself supporting someone during a seizure, remember this: you are doing a good job. Seizure first aid is about presence, calmness, and safety, not perfection. Being informed helps reduce fear and builds confidence.

Please also check out the printable infographic on seizure first aid and the seizure ID card template, which can be especially helpful for children and caregivers.

Disclaimer: This guide is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult a qualified health practitioner for diagnosis and management.

If you have questions about Autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, epilepsy, or other intellectual or developmental disabilities, or if you have concerns about a child’s development, the Nayi Disha team is here to help. You can contact their FREE helpline at 844-844-8996 via call or WhatsApp. Counsellors are available in English, Hindi, Malayalam, Gujarati, Marathi, Telugu, and Bengali.