What action is NOT recommended during a seizure?

• A. Forcibly inserting objects into the mouth.
• B. Protect the head and clear the area.
• C. Loosen restrictive clothing.
• D. Call for help.

Answer: (A)

During a seizure, the safest approach is to protect the person from injury and avoid anything that could harm the airway or cause choking. Forcibly inserting objects into the mouth is not recommended because it can cause serious injury to teeth, gums, and the jaw, and it may push an object into the airway or cause aspiration if the person starts to vomit or bite down unpredictably. There’s also little that can be safely gripped or removed in that moment, and the person can typically breathe through the seizure without any intervention in the mouth.

What to do instead is keep the person safe: gently cushion the head, clear the surrounding hazards, loosen tight clothing, and avoid restricting movements. Do not try to hold the person down or restrain them. If possible, once the shaking stops, help them roll onto their side to maintain an open airway. Time the seizure; if it lasts more than a few minutes, or if another seizure begins right away, or if this is the first known seizure, call for emergency help. After the seizure ends, stay with them until they are fully awake, and offer reassurance. Do not give food or drink until they are fully alert.