Seizures

A seizure is an event that involves sudden, temporary bursts of electrical activity in the brain that change or disrupt the way messages are sent between brain cells. These electrical bursts can cause involuntary changes in body movement or function, sensation, behavior, or awareness. 

Signs & Symptoms 

Seizure activity may include any of the following signs and symptoms (non-inclusive):

• Episodes of staring with loss of eye contact
• Staring involving twitching of the arm and leg muscles
• Generalized jerking movements of the arms and legs
• Impaired awareness for that person (e.g., running, belligerence, making strange sounds, etc.)

Actions

1. A student with a known seizure history will typically have an IHP with an emergency action plan (EAP) to address their seizure activity when accessing their school or program.
2. If the student has a seizure while standing, assist them gently to the ground and on their side in the recovery position.
3. Do not restrain the student.
4. Move objects away from the student to prevent injury.
5. Do not place anything in the student’s mouth.
6. Observe the student and note (non-inclusive list):
   1. the duration of seizure activity
   2. the kind of movement or behavior
   3. body parts involved
   4. loss of consciousness
7. Notify the student’s parent and the school nurse (if available).