A client is admitted with a seizure disorder. Which items should be readily available at the bedside for seizure precautions?

Seizure precautions:

Bedside equipment: Suction equipment (to clear secretions and maintain airway); oxygen (for post-ictal hypoxia); padded side rails; bed in LOW position.

During a seizure: Protect from injury — do NOT restrain; do NOT put anything in the mouth (the old 'bite block/tongue blade' teaching is WRONG and dangerous — can break teeth, obstruct airway, injure the mouth); turn the client to the side (recovery position) to prevent aspiration if possible; protect the head (cushion); loosen tight clothing; note time, duration, and characteristics of the seizure; clear the area of hazards; AFTER (post-ictal): Maintain airway, suction if needed, provide oxygen, reorient gently, allow rest, assess for injury.

Document: Onset, duration, type of movements, level of consciousness, incontinence, post-ictal state.

Never: insert objects in the mouth, restrain the client, leave the client alone.

Call for help: Notify RN/provider; status epilepticus (continuous/repeated seizures) is an emergency; LPN role: implement precautions, protect during seizure, monitor, document, never restrain or insert objects.