Practical Scenario 1

Tonic-Clonic Seizure in the Workplace

You are at work when a colleague suddenly collapses. Their body becomes stiff, followed by jerking movements of their arms and legs. They are not responding when you speak to them. Several people nearby look alarmed and ask what to do.

Consider:

• What is the first action you should take?
• Should you try to hold them still?
• Should you put something in their mouth?
• When should you call 999?

Take a moment to think through your response before reading on.

Correct First Aid Response

• Stay calm and reassure others
• Protect their head
• Move nearby objects away
• Do not restrain their movements
• Do not put anything in their mouth
• Time the seizure

If the seizure lasts 5 minutes or longer, call 999.

When the seizure stops:

• Check breathing
• Place in the recovery position if needed
• Stay with them until fully alert