Absence Seizure in a School Setting

Scenario

You are supervising a classroom when a child suddenly stops speaking mid-sentence. They stare blankly ahead and do not respond when their name is called. After a few seconds, they continue speaking as if nothing happened.

Consider

What type of seizure might this be?
Should you restrain the child?
Should you call 999 immediately?
What is the appropriate response?

Correct first aid response

01Stay calm

Remain calm and observe the child carefully.

02Ensure safety

Make sure the child is safe and do not restrain them.

03Reassure after the episode

Gently gain their attention once the episode ends and repeat anything they missed.

04Follow the care plan

Inform appropriate staff or follow the Individual Healthcare Plan if one is in place.

Absence seizures:

Absence seizures usually last only a few seconds
They may happen several times a day
They do not usually require 999 unless episodes continue repeatedly or the child does not return to normal awareness