Emergency First Aid for Children

5. Disorders of Consciousness

Epileptic Seizures

• Caused by instability of electrical activity in the brain

• Over 40 types of seizure which may be partial or full-blown

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Partial Epileptic Seizure• During a minor fit (petit mal) a person may

appear to have switched off, maybe some facial twitching or distracted movements.

Treatment• Stay with casualty and reassure them.• Arrange for them to see a doctor

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Major Epileptic SeizureNOTE

• Babies and young children may have seizures induced by a high temperature. The signs and symptoms are similar to a major epileptic seizure.

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Major Epileptic Seizure A seizure MAY progress through the following

stages:

Rigidity and arching of back Breathing may cease Jerking movements Froth or bubbles around the mouth Bladder or bowel control lost Dazed feeling

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Major Epileptic SeizureIf casualty starts to fall help them to the floor.

Place padding under or around the head.

Do not try to hold them down or move them.

Don’t put anything in their mouth or try give them anything to eat or drink.

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Major Epileptic Seizure

If casualty has never had a seizure before, if they have repeated seizures, or it they remain unconscious for more than 10 minutes - call an ambulance

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Diabetic EmergencyRecognising low blood sugar• Weakness or hunger• Confused or aggressive behaviour• Sweating• Very pale face• Strong bounding pulse• Shallow breathing

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Diabetic EmergencyFor a conscious casualty• Give them a sugary drink or sweet food.

Sit them down.

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Diabetic EmergencyFor an unconscious casualty

Open the airway and

check breathing is

present

If breathing – place in the recovery

position..

If not be prepared to resuscitate

Call an Ambulance

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FaintLay casualty down and raise their legs above the level of the heart, supporting them appropriately

Check that there is no tight clothing around their neck, chest and waist. Give them plenty of fresh air.

If consciousness not regained, assess their condition. Be prepared to resuscitate. If breathing, place her in the recovery position.

Call for an Ambulance

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Emergency First Aid for Children

End of Section