How long should you wait to call an ambulance if somebody is having a fit?
If someone is having a seizure:
- First, make sure the area around the person is safe remove anything that could potentially harm the person if convulsive movements should occur.
- Gently lay the person on a flat, safe surface.
- DO NOT restrain the person this will not stop the seizure.
- Turn the person on their side to help keep the airway open.
- Place something soft under the person's head, such as a coat, to prevent injury.
- Loosen any tight clothing, especially around the person's neck.
- DO NOT put anything in the person's mouth this can cause choking.
- Try to keep track of how long the seizure lasts.
- If the seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or the person does not start breathing after the seizure, call an ambulance immediately.
- Stay with the person until help arrives.
After the seizure is over:
- Stay with the person until they are fully awake and alert.
- If needed help the person into a recovery position on their side, to help prevent choking.
- Be reassuring and calm this can help the person who had the seizure feel less anxious.
- Allow the person to rest and do not disturb them they will most likely feel tired and disoriented.