NCLEX · General

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

Correct answer

Suction equipment and oxygen — to maintain a patent airway during and after a seizure; the bed should be in low position with side rails padded

  1. A Padded tongue blade and restraints
  2. B Suction equipment and oxygen — to maintain a patent airway during and after a seizure; the bed should be in low position with side rails padded
  3. C A bite block to insert during the seizure
  4. D Ice packs

Why this is the answer

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.
Source: NCLEX-PN Safe Care — Seizure Precautions