A seizure is a sign of abnormal brain activity, which can be caused by many problems.
Seizure duration varies greatly and most last less than 5 minutes.
Learn more about triggers, signs and symptoms of seizures.
Start with DRSABCD
D - Danger
Assess the area to ensure its safe for yourself, others and the patient. Only proceed to help them if its safe.
R - Response
Check for a response. You can do this by asking their name and squeezing their shoulders.
- If they do respond: Make them comfortable and continue to follow the steps in this guide
- If they don't respond: Send for help immediately (call Triple Zero 000) and follow the DRSABCD Action Plan
First aid for seizures
Call Triple Zero (000) if:
- the seizure happens in water or the person may be pregnant
- you do not know the person
- this is their first seizure or if it is unknown if there is a history of seizures
- the seizure departs from the usual pattern
- the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes or another seizure begins
- the person does not regain consciousness within 5 minutes
- there is no seizure management plan in place
- you are concerned about any aspect of the person's care such as injury
During the seizure:
- Protect the person from injury – remove objects nearby.
- Place something soft under their head and shoulders.
- Time the seizure.
- Do not put anything in their mouth or move them unless they are in danger
- Don't restrain the person or try to stop their movements
If the seizure occurs in water
- Support the person in the water with the head tilted so the face is out of the water
- Remove the person from the water as soon as it is safe to do do
After the seizure:
- Put them in the recovery position once movement stops, or immediately if they vomit or have fluid in their mouth.
- Check their breathing and airway if they are unconscious — ensure they are breathing normally.
- Treat any injuries caused by the seizure.
- Do NOT disturb them if they fall asleep — continue monitoring breathing.
- Calmly talk to them once they regain consciousness. Reassure them and stay with them as they may be confused or agitated.
Seizures and Head Injury
Head injuries may cause or result from seizure. Learn more below.
Seizures and Head Injuries
Seizures and Fainting
Fainting may resemble brief seizures; assess carefully. Learn more below
Seizures and Fainting
Seizures and Diabetes
Seizures can be caused by low blood sugar. Learn more below
Seizures and Diabetes
Seizures and Poisoning
Seizures may be a symptom of poisoning. Learn more below.
Seizures and Poisoning
What not to do for Seizures
- DON'T Put anything in their mouth
- DON'T Hold them down
- DON'T Move them unless their in danger
- DON'T Leave them alone during or after the seizures
- DON'T Put a child in a bath to lower their temperature during a seizure as this is dangerous
- DON'T Panic - stay with them until fully recovered
What to do for Seizures
- DO Protect the person from harm
- DO Cushion their head
- DOTime the seizure
- DO Roll them into the recovery position when safe
- DO Stay calm and reassure them
