MCOLES State Licensing Practice Exam

What should be done if a person is suspected of having a seizure?

1. Call for immediate help

2. Move them to a safe area

3. Place them on their side

4. Let them lie down flat

The correct answer is: Place them on their side

Placing a person suspected of having a seizure on their side is the most appropriate action among the choices provided. This positioning is beneficial for several reasons. It helps to keep the airway clear, which is crucial because individuals can sometimes experience difficulty breathing during or after a seizure. By positioning them on their side, any fluids, such as saliva or vomit, can drain out of the mouth rather than potentially blocking the airway, which can lead to choking. This position also helps reduce the risk of injury. Seizures can cause muscle contractions and spasms, and by lying on the side, the individual is less likely to injure themselves if they happen to roll or thrash during the episode. While calling for immediate help is important, it is critical to ensure the person's safety as a first step, making the side position a priority. Similarly, moving them to a safe area can also be necessary, but simply lying them flat may not provide the same benefits regarding airway management and could potentially lead to other complications. Therefore, placing the individual on their side strikes a balance between safety and medical responsiveness during a seizure.