Basics
what is a seizure?
A seizure is a sudden surge of electrical activity in the brain causing changes in behavior, movement, or consciousness.
What’s the first thing you do if a guest seizes in the pool?
Support their head and keep their face above water to maintain a open airway
What’s the first thing to do when someone seizes on land?
Check the area, begin timing the seizure.
you should put something in their mouth to prevent tongue biting.
false, never put anything in their mouth.
name the first step to care for a seizure in the water
support the head and keep the airway open
Name one cause of a seizure
Possible causes include epilepsy, head injury, high fever, drug overdose, low blood sugar, or brain tumor.
How do you keep a seizing swimmer safe in the water?
Hold them, especially the head above water and keep them from hitting any walls or other people
What should you place under the persons head during a seizure?
A towel, jacket, or anything soft to prevent head injury.
seizures are always caused by epilepsy.
false their are many other causes.
what are two things you should do for a on land seizure?
time the seizure and protect the head
What is the difference between a generalized and focal seizure?
A generalized seizure affects both sides of the brain, while a focal seizure starts in one area of the brain.
Why or why not should you remove a swimmer from the water while the seizure is ongoing?
No, keep them supported in the water until the seizure ends.
What position should the guest be placed in when the seizure ends?
The recovery position
someone can drown during a in water seizure
true, which is why we need to give them immediate support.
Name 3 causes of a a seizure
head trauma, epilepsy, high fever, drug use, low blood sugar
What are two warning signs before a seizure?
Warning signs may include visual disturbances, dizziness, confusion, an unusual taste or smell.
When is it appropriate to use the backboard during a seizure in the water?
When the seizure stops and the person is unresponsive or has a spinal injury
Name two things you should NOT do when a guest seizes on land.
don’t restrain them or put anything in their mouth.
CPR should always be started immediately after the seizure.
false, only if no pulse.
how do you know when to call for EMS?
lasts for more then 5, first time, longer then 5 minutes, not breathing after, or injury occurs during
What is status epilepticus and why is it dangerous?
Status epilepticus is a seizure lasting more than 5 minutes or repeated seizures without recovery and its life-threatening and requires immediate EMS care.
What’s the next step after removing someone from the water who is done seizing and unconscious?
Check for pulse and breathing, go from there
When should EMS be called if they seize on land
If it’s their first seizure, if it lasts longer then 5 minutes, if they don’t regain consciousness, or if they’re injured.
People often remember everything that happened during a seizure.
false, many have no memory after
list 4 steps you would take if someone has a seizure in the pool.
Remove them safely, check breathing, provide oxygen/rescue breaths if needed, call EMS, monitor until help arrives