Seizure first aid: practice in real time

A student has a seizure. Do the right things, in the right order, and decide whether this one needs 911. Every run is different.

Press start. You will get the situation, then the seizure begins.
Ready
0:00 not started
5 min: emergency
The three things that matter most: time it, keep them safe, stay with them.

What happened, and what to do next

0actions right
0missed
0harmful
--911 decision

Write it down while it is fresh

Observation log and plan template (PDF) Free Minnesota training

Your actions

Log

  • --:--Nothing yet.

When a seizure is a 911 call

  • Convulsive seizure lasting more than 5 minutes
  • A second seizure before the person recovers
  • Trouble breathing, or blue or grey lips
  • Injury, or the seizure happened in water
  • The person's first known seizure
  • They do not wake up afterwards
  • Their seizure action plan says to call

Most seizures stop on their own and do not need an ambulance. Calling when it is not needed costs a family money and does not help the student.

This is practice, not medical advice or certification. A student's care is set by their healthcare provider and their seizure action plan.