What to do when someone has a seizure depends on the type of seizure they are having.

• Click here to download First Aid booklet (PDF - 647KB)

Convulsive seizure with loss of consciousness, muscle stiffening, falling, followed by jerking movements.

1. Note the time the seizure started.
2. Protect from injury, quickly remove any hard objects that could cause injury.
   Protect the head as best you can – if available use a pillow or cushion.
   Do not attempt to restrain the person, or to stop the jerking.
   Do not put anything in the mouth.
3. Gently roll the person on to their side as soon as it is possible to do so.
   Establish communication so that you know they have actually regained consciousness.
4. Reassure them and let them know where they are, that they are safe and that you will stay with them while they recover.

Non convulsive with outward signs of confusion, unresponsiveness or inappropriate behaviour. Can be mistaken for alcohol or drug intoxication.

During a complex partial seizure you may need to gently guide the person past obstacles and away from dangerous places.

As the seizure finishes, establish supportive communication and ask if they are OK.

Mostly affects children, non convulsive and consists of brief periods of loss of awareness. Can be mistaken for day dreaming.

• Recognise that a seizure has occurred.
• Reassure the person and repeat any information that may have been missed during the seizure.

Call an ambulance (000) if any of these events occur:

• When the seizure activity itself lasts more than 5 minutes or a second seizure quickly follows
• When the person has lost consciousness for 5 minutes or more.
• The seizure occurs in water
• Where the person is injured or has vomited
• Where you know, or believe it to be, the person’s first seizure.
• If you know the person has diabetes or is pregnant
• If in doubt