North Carolina CNA Written Practice Exam

What is the first step you should take if a patient is having a seizure?

1. Restrain the patient

2. Call for help

3. Lower them to the floor

4. Put something in their mouth

The correct answer is: Lower them to the floor

Lowering a patient to the floor is a critical first step if a patient is having a seizure. This action helps to prevent injury by ensuring that the person is on a more stable surface, thus reducing the risk of falling or hitting their head. It also provides a safe environment for the patient during the seizure. When a seizure occurs, the priority is to protect the patient from harm. By lowering them to the floor, caregivers minimize the risk of injury caused by a fall. Additionally, it's important to clear the area around the patient of any objects that could cause harm during the seizure. This step is vital for their safety and well-being. Other approaches such as restraining, calling for help, or putting something in the patient's mouth are not appropriate first actions during a seizure. Restraining might lead to further injury or distress, while calling for help should generally be done after ensuring the patient is in a safe position. Placing objects in the mouth can result in choking or damage to the patient's teeth or gums. The primary focus during a seizure should be to ensure safety and manage the situation calmly.