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Seizures can be a frightening experience, both for the person experiencing one and for those witnessing it. As a WorkSafeBC-certified OFA Level 1 first aid attendant, knowing how to respond quickly and effectively is crucial in ensuring workplace safety. This guide provides the necessary steps for managing a seizure emergency and protecting the injured worker.
Understanding Seizures
A seizure is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain that can cause a range of physical symptoms, from twitching and shaking to loss of consciousness. Seizures can be triggered by epilepsy, head injuries, alcohol withdrawal, drug use, fever, or other underlying medical conditions.
Types of Seizures
The most common types of seizures OFA Level 1 attendants may encounter in a workplace setting include:
Tonic-Clonic Seizures (Grand Mal)
- Sudden loss of consciousness
- Convulsions (uncontrolled jerking of limbs)
- Tight jaw and clenched teeth
- Possible loss of bladder control
Simple Partial Seizures
- Twitching or shaking in one part of the body
- May remain conscious but unable to communicate
- Can progress into a tonic-clonic seizure
Priority Action Approach for Seizures
When responding to a seizure emergency, follow these OFA Level 1 first aid steps:
1. Scene Assessment
✔ Ensure the scene is safe for you and the injured worker.
✔ Remove any nearby hazards (e.g., sharp objects, machinery).
✔ Identify the number of affected individuals and ensure no other workers are in danger.
2. Responsiveness Assessment
✔ Use the AVPU scale to assess the worker’s level of consciousness:
- Alert – Worker is fully conscious
- Verbal – Responds to voice commands
- Pain – Responds only to pain stimulus
- Unresponsive – No response at all
3. Primary Survey
✔ Airway (A): After convulsions stop, ensure the airway is open using the head-tilt chin-lift maneuver.
✔ Breathing (B): Look, listen, and feel for breathing. Ensure normal breathing patterns return.
✔ Circulation (C): Check for signs of shock (pale, cool skin, weak pulse).
4. Activate Emergency Response Procedures
✔ Instruct a co-worker to call 911 or activate the workplace Emergency Transport Vehicle (ETV).
✔ Provide essential details to EMS dispatch, including:
- Worker’s condition (e.g., seizure, unresponsive, breathing difficulties)
- Location of the incident
- Number of affected individuals
✔ Have the co-worker confirm that EMS has been called.
5. Critical Interventions
During the Seizure (Do Not Restrain the Worker)
✅ Protect from injury – Move sharp or dangerous objects away from the worker.
✅ Do NOT put anything in their mouth – A common myth is that they can “swallow their tongue”—this is false.
✅ Allow the seizure to run its course – Most seizures last less than two minutes.
After the Seizure Stops
✅ Maintain an open airway – Perform a head-tilt chin-lift maneuver if necessary.
✅ Position properly – Place the worker in the ¾-prone (recovery) position to allow fluids to drain.
✅ Monitor breathing – Ensure the worker is breathing normally after the seizure.
Secondary Survey and Ongoing Assessment
✔ Gather medical history – If possible, check for a MedicAlert bracelet indicating a seizure disorder.
✔ Reassess ABCs every five minutes – Keep monitoring airway, breathing, and circulation.
✔ Check vital signs – Track breathing rate, level of consciousness, and pulse.
✔ Update EMS – Inform emergency responders if the worker’s condition changes.
Documentation
📋 Complete a first aid record:
✔ Document all observations, treatments, and communications with the injured worker and emergency responders.
Key Takeaways
✔ Act Fast – Seizures are medical emergencies requiring immediate intervention.
✔ Do NOT Restrain – Let the seizure take its course while ensuring the worker does not suffer additional injuries.
✔ Airway Management – After convulsions stop, check and maintain a clear airway.
✔ Positioning Matters – Place unresponsive workers in the recovery position to prevent choking.
✔ Call for Help – Activate EMS immediately if the seizure lasts longer than five minutes or the worker does not regain consciousness.
✔ Monitor Continuously – Track airway, breathing, and circulation until emergency responders arrive.
By following these OFA Level 1 first aid guidelines, you can effectively manage a seizure emergency, ensuring worker safety and a timely emergency response.
Need First Aid Training?
If you’re looking to expand your skills and workplace safety knowledge, enroll in an OFA Level 1 course in Vancouver. Fundamental First Aid provides WorkSafeBC-approved first aid training, equipping you with essential life-saving techniques for emergencies like seizures, strokes, and diabetic emergencies.
✅ Book your first aid training today!