What can happen if you leave a patient having grand mal seizure un-attended?

Leaving a patient having a grand mal seizure unattended can lead to several risks and potential complications:

1. Aspiration: During a grand mal seizure, the person may lose control of their airway and breathing. This can lead to aspiration, where foreign objects, such as saliva or vomit, enter the lungs. Aspiration can cause lung infections and other respiratory problems.

2. Injury: A person experiencing a grand mal seizure may experience violent muscle contractions, which can result in injuries to themselves or those around them. They may hit their head or other body parts against nearby objects, leading to bruises, cuts, or more severe injuries.

3. Prolonged Seizure: Leaving a person with a grand mal seizure unattended can lead to a prolonged seizure. If the seizure lasts longer than five minutes, it is considered a medical emergency and requires prompt intervention to prevent potential complications.

4. Status Epilepticus: In rare cases, a prolonged grand mal seizure can lead to a condition called status epilepticus. This is a medical emergency where the seizure continues for more than 30 minutes or multiple seizures occur without full recovery in between. Status epilepticus can cause severe brain damage and requires immediate medical attention.

5. Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP): SUDEP is a rare but possible complication of epilepsy, including grand mal seizures. Although the exact cause is not fully understood, SUDEP can occur when a person with epilepsy experiences a sudden and unexplained death during or shortly after a seizure.

Therefore, it is crucial to never leave a person having a grand mal seizure unattended. If you witness a seizure, stay with the person, ensure their safety, and call for medical help immediately.