First aid for convulsive epileptic seizures (tonic clonic or clonic - previously known as grand mal)- Stay calm.
- Note the time.
- Prevent others from crowding round.
- Put something soft under the person’s head - like a jacket or cardigan - to prevent injury.
- Only move if they are in a dangerous place, such as in the road or at the top of stairs. Move things away from them if there is a risk of injury.
- Do not attempt to restrain the convulsive movements. Allow the seizure to take its course.
- Do not put anything in the person’s mouth. There is no danger of swallowing the tongue and teeth can easily be broken.
When the seizure has stopped:
- If possible roll the person onto their side into the recovery position.
- Wipe away any excess saliva. If breathing is still laboured check that nothing is blocking the throat, such as dentures or food.
- Do all you can to minimise embarrassment. If the person has been incontinent, deal with this as privately as possible.
- Stay with the person giving reassurance until they have fully recovered. Do not offer them a drink unless you are sure they are fully recovered.
Most seizures happen without warning,
last only a short time and stop without any special treatment. Injuries can occur, but most people do not come to any harm in a seizure and
do not usually need to go to hospital or see a doctor.
When a person has a convulsive seizure it is possible that their regular breathing pattern will be affected and they may go blue. Although this can be frightening to witness,
it does not mean it is a medical emergency.
15 minutes? Bargain!
And as for leaving early - I'm normally having a fag at STD +5
