Epilepsy seizure guidance

The following is the recommended course of action for staff should a student/staff member experience an epileptic seizure.

1. Student/Staff member may get a brief warning – an aura. If you see them fall, try to ease their fall, but do not try to catch them, for your own safety. Note the time the seizure starts
2. Make sure there are no objects around the student/staff member that could harm them, for example: desk, chairs, sharp objects.
3. Allow the seizure to progress – pad around the head if possible, but do not restrain. Loosen clothing around the neck and make space around them.
4. Contact nearest First Aider for assistance -  (campus security) 01382 3884141  internal 84141
5. Once the seizure has ceased, and if the student/staff member is breathing, place them in the recovery position and monitor vital signs i.e. level or response, pulse, and breathing. Note the duration of the seizure
6. Keep onlookers away – the person may drool or be incontinent; reduce embarrassment by having essential personnel only
7. Only phone for an ambulance if:
   • they are not breathing
   • it is the first seizure (if you can ascertain this from the student/staff member or peers/colleagues
   • the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes
   • there are repeated seizures
   • they are unconscious for more than 10 minutes
   • they are unaware of any reason for the seizure

Seizures usually last a few minutes, but the student/staff member may be unwell for some hours afterwards. Arrangements should therefore be made for them to be accompanied home.