EPILEPTIC FIT – SIMPLE RULES
There are some simple rules of which we should all be aware if we are called on to render first aid to someone having an epileptic fit.
There is no need to move the person unless he is in danger from a hazard such as traffic or moving machinery.
Do not restrain the convulsive movements. Move furniture, if possible, away from the person.
Do not put your fingers in the mouth of the person, trying to remove dentures or stop him biting his tongue — you may have your fingers severely bitten. Most people feel they should place something in the mouth of the convulsing person to stop the tongue being bitten. Hard objects like spoons or pieces of wood are more likely to break the teeth. A bitten tongue will heal but a knocked-out tooth is gone for ever.
In my experience, it is difficult to insert a soft object such as a rolled handkerchief or a cloth-covered piece of wood, so it is better not to try.
When the convulsion has stopped, the person should be rolled on to the front with head to the side — the coma position — so that saliva or vomit will not be inhaled.
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Tags: General health