A young child experiences a tonic-clonic seizure while a nurse is shopping. What is the first responsibility of the nurse during the seizure?

A young child experiences a tonic-clonic seizure while a nurse is shopping. What is the first responsibility of the nurse during the seizure?

• A. Observe the seizure and protect the child from injury.
• B. Call 9-1-1.
• C. Reassure the parents.
• D. Insert any safe object in the child's mouth to maintain an airway.

Answer: (A)

During a tonic-clonic seizure, the first priority is safety. The nurse should observe and protect the child from injury by clearing nearby hazards, cushioning the head, and loosening restrictive clothing. Do not restrain the child or place anything in the mouth. Time the seizure and stay with the child, ready to assist with breathing once the convulsions stop. Reassurance for the parents and contacting emergency services are important but come after ensuring the child’s safety.

During a tonic-clonic seizure, the first priority is safety. The nurse should observe and protect the child from injury by clearing nearby hazards, cushioning the head, and loosening restrictive clothing. Do not restrain the child or place anything in the mouth. Time the seizure and stay with the child, ready to assist with breathing once the convulsions stop. Reassurance for the parents and contacting emergency services are important but come after ensuring the child’s safety.