Version 7 - Posted 7/21/202 1 1
POLICY AND PROCEDURE
Subject: Seizure Precautions
POLICY NO.:
NSI-SFT_04
ORIGINAL DATE:
12/1995
LAST REVIEW / REVISION
:
06/2021
PAGE:
1 of 3
Key Words: activity
Applies to: Inpatient Outpatient: Provider: All: x Video: .
I. POLICY:
The following are guidelines for nursing in managing/protecting from injury the patient with seizure activity or at
high risk for seizure activity and to provide for accurate observation/documentation.
II. DEFINITIONS:
None
III. PROCEDURE:
Responsible person Action
RN
*PRECAUTIONS
TAKEN TO CONTROL SEIZURE*
Identify and avoid precipitating factors that could lead to a seizure.
Assess patient for any reactions to anticonvulsant medications or
signs of toxicity and report immediately.
IN THE EVENT OF SEIZURE ACTIVITY, THE
FOLLOWING STEPS SHOULD BE TAKEN:
Standard Preparation:
Obtain pads for side rails and airway
Explain procedure to patient and family
Place pads on side rails
Place airway above bed
Assure that suction equipment is available on the unit
Procedure:
Stay with patient and provide privacy – Time how long seizures last.
If patient reports an aura (symptom) prior to seizure, have him/her
lie down.
1. Loosen any constricting clothing around the neck.
2. If patient is in chair, ease to the floor.
3. Provide for adequate ventilation by maintaining a patent
airway.
4. Place oral airway if possible. Do not force airway into mouth
during an active seizures.
