The nurse finds the client in a seizure. After lowering the client to the floor, which action should the nurse take first?

• A. Place the client in a side-lying position
• B. Restrain the limbs
• C. Check blood pressure
• D. Administer fluids

Answer: (A)

The immediate priority during a seizure is protecting the airway and preventing injury. After lowering the client to the floor, the first action is to turn the patient onto the side in the recovery position. This position helps keep the airway clear, allows secretions to drain, and reduces the risk of aspiration as consciousness returns and the seizure ends. Restraining the limbs can cause harm and doesn’t stop the seizure. Checking blood pressure or giving fluids during the seizure doesn’t address airway protection and can delay stabilization. After the convulsions stop, continue monitoring the patient’s breathing and airway patency, and seek help if the seizure lasts longer than expected or the patient has trouble breathing.