Question

A client is sitting in a chair and begins having a tonic-clonic seizure. The most appropriate nursing response is to:

1) Allow him to remain in the chair but move all objects out of his way.
2) Place an oral airway in his mouth to maintain an open airway.
3) Hold the client's arm still to keep him from hitting anything.
4) Carefully move him to a flat surface and turn him on his side.

Answer 1

In case of a tonic-clonic seizure, safely moving the client to a flat surface and turning them on the side is the correct response to maintain an open airway. Objects should not be placed in the person's mouth, and restraint should be avoided. After the seizure, anticonvulsant medications may be considered for management.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a client begins having a tonic-clonic seizure while sitting in a chair, the most appropriate nursing response is to carefully move him to a flat surface and turn him on his side. This helps to ensure an open airway and prevent aspiration should the client vomit during the seizure. It's important not to place anything in the client's mouth, such as an oral airway, due to the risk of injury, and restraint should not be used as it can cause harm to both the client and the caregiver. Instead, focus on padding the area around the client, managing safety, and after the seizure, considering medications such as anticonvulsants for further treatment.

Treatment speed is critical in neurological emergencies like strokes; therefore, remembering the FAST mnemonic can be a lifesaver. It is vital for those around the patient to quickly recognize and respond to signs of stroke, which includes aspirin therapy to reduce the risk of clot formation.