What should you know about epilepsy first aid?

A seizure may cause stiffening and rhythmic jerking, but it can also appear as staring, sudden loss of awareness, repetitive movements, wandering, or brief unusual sensations. The person may not respond normally and may be confused, tired, or have a headache afterwards. They may not remember the event.

Your priorities are safety and observation. Do not hold the person down, place anything in their mouth, give food or drink, or move them unless the surroundings are dangerous. Do not provide rescue medicine unless it has been prescribed with clear instructions and you have been trained to use it.

Note the start time. Move hard or sharp objects away, cushion the head, remove glasses, and loosen tight clothing around the neck. Let the movements happen without restraint. When the jerking stops, check breathing and place the person on their side if they are sleepy or unresponsive. Remain with them and speak calmly as awareness returns.

A witness can record the sequence, duration, breathing changes, injuries, and recovery. This information can help a clinician. For ongoing concerns, arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) and bring any seizure plan or medicine information.

Call emergency services if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, seizures happen repeatedly without recovery, it is the person's first suspected seizure, breathing stays difficult, or a serious injury occurs. Call promptly if the seizure happens in water, during pregnancy, or in someone with diabetes. If the person remains unusually confused or does not regain their normal breathing, keep monitoring them and follow the emergency operator's instructions.

What does my rescue plan say? When should prescribed rescue medicine be used? Which injuries or changes in recovery should be reported, and who should be taught my first-aid plan?