3 Simple Steps for Seizure First Aid – National Epilepsy Awareness Month

If someone collapsed in front of you and started convulsing, would you know what to do? Would you know the basic steps to ensure they are safe and can breathe?

March 26 is PURPLE DAY and throughout March, Epilepsy Australia is urging people around the country to end the stigma and discrimination of epilepsy and ‘GO PURPLE’, the international colour for epilepsy.

FACT! In Australia alone approximately 250,000 people live with epilepsy (a common brain disorder which takes the form of recurring seizures) and one in 25 people will have epilepsy at some point in their life.

We thought the best way we can support and spread awareness of epilepsy is to ensure you and others are first aid ready to help when someone suffers a seizure at work, home or wherever you are.

CONVULSIVE SEIZURE MAY LOOK LIKE
Loss of strength or function
Altered consciousness or unconscious
Uncontrolled jerking movements of limbs
Eye rolling
Arching back
Groaning
Saliva or foaming from the mouth
Loss of bladder or bowel control
SIGNS OF ABSENCE SEIZURE MAY BE
Unaware of surroundings
Unable to respond
Aimless stare
Sudden peculiar behavior (lip smacking, unusual sounds)

FIRST AID FOR A SEIZURE
Remove all hazards and potential dangers.
Protect their head with cushioning.
As soon as practical, lay casualty down on their side.
Upon waking, the casualty may be confused or agitated.
Give reassurance and encourage rest.

CALL 000 FOR
unconsciousness and active seizure
seizures lasting more than 5 minutes
multiple seizures
first-time seizures
casualty suffers serious injury