Seizure First Aid for Children in Wheelchairs

During and After a Seizure

• Remain calm and allow the seizure to run its course or follow procedures as otherwise instructed to do so.
• Note the time seizure started.
• Ask someone to contact the school nurse (if in school) and/or parents.
• Do not remove a child from the wheelchair during a seizure as they could be injured while being moved. The child is safer in the wheelchair as it provides padding and support.
• Wheelchair related maneuvers:
  • Make sure the wheelchair brakes are on.
  • Secure the child’s seatbelt. If no seatbelt, stand in front of the child keep them from falling forward.
  • As a preventive measure, remove or pad any hard object on or around the wheelchair, which may cause injury.
  • Do not hold the child down or use anything to limit their movements during a seizure.
  • Hold the wheelchair secure in place, to prevent it from toppling to one side.
  • If able, partially recline the wheelchair. If unable, the child may need to be removed to keep the airway clear and open.
• Keep the airway clear and open. Gently turn the child’s head to one side so the saliva can flow out, to prevent aspiration of secretions.
• Never place anything in the child’s mouth.
• Loosen tight fitting clothes, remove glasses or nearby hazards.
• Allow the child to rest if needed.
• Provide support and reassurance as the child recovers.
• Observe the child during and after the seizure, while continuing to keep him/her safe.
• Have rescue medication available if prescribed by the doctor.
• Calmly stay with the child as he or she recovers from the seizure.
• Offer help and comfort to aid in the child’s recovery.
• Note the duration of the seizure and the length of recovery time.
• Administer rescue medication if physician recommended criteria are met.
• Observe for any side effects that may be caused by the rescue medication.
• Call 9-1-1 if:
  • Seizure lasts >5 minutes if rescue medication is NOT PRESCRIBED.
  • Seizure continues 5 minutes AFTER rescue medication was administered.

If you have any additional safety questions or concerns, please contact your epilepsy specialist.