Question

The caregivers of a patient with acute seizures ask the nurse what they should do if another episode of seizure occurs at home after discharge. What should the nurse tell them? Select all that apply.

a. Place the patient in a bathtub filled with cold water.
b. Insert a spoon or other object into the patient's mouth.
c. Place the patient on their side to maintain a clear airway.
d. Time the duration of the seizure.

Answer 1

Caregivers should place a patient experiencing a seizure on their side to maintain a clear airway and time the seizure's duration. They should not place the patient in a bathtub or insert objects into the patient's mouth. Anticonvulsants are used medically but are typically not self-administered at home.

Step-by-step explanation:

When caring for a patient with acute seizures, it is important for caregivers to be prepared for another episode. Here are the instructions the nurse should provide:

• Place the patient on their side to maintain a clear airway, which helps prevent aspiration in case the patient vomits.
• Time the duration of the seizure, as this can provide valuable information to healthcare professionals about the severity and necessary interventions for future seizures.

The following actions should be avoided:

• Do not place the patient in a bathtub filled with cold water. This action can cause additional harm and does not aid in stopping a seizure.
• Do not insert a spoon or any other object into the patient's mouth. This can cause injury to the patient or the individual trying to insert the object.

Additionally, anticonvulsants, such as diazepam, may be administered in a medical setting to manage active seizures, but this is not typically done at home by caregivers.