NCLEX-PN® ExaminationSafety and Infection ControlMedium
An LPN is assisting with the care of a client who has a seizure disorder and is currently having a generalized tonic-clonic seizure. Which action should the LPN prioritize?
- ARestrain the client's extremities to prevent injury.
- BAdminister an oral anti-seizure medication immediately.
- CPlace a pillow under the client's head and turn them to their side.
- DInsert a tongue blade into the client's mouth to prevent biting.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Place a pillow under the client's head and turn them to their side.
During a tonic-clonic seizure, the priority is to protect the client from injury and maintain a patent airway. Placing a pillow under the head protects it from trauma, and turning the client to their side helps prevent aspiration of secretions.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Restraining extremities during a seizure can cause injury such as fractures or dislocations.
- B. Administering oral medication during a seizure is unsafe due to aspiration risk and difficulty swallowing.
- D. Inserting anything into the mouth during a seizure can cause tooth damage, oral injury, or airway obstruction.
Seizure Safety Interventions
Actions taken by healthcare providers to protect a client experiencing a seizure from injury and to ensure airway patency, while also observing and documenting seizure characteristics.
- Do not restrain the client.
- Do not insert anything into the mouth.
- Protect the head and turn to the side.
- Note specific seizure characteristics and duration.
Memory trick: Protect, Position, Observe