Why should you not restrain a resident during a seizure?

• A. It is expensive
• B. It helps the seizure to stop faster
• C. It could cause injury
• D. It prevents the person from recovering quickly

Answer: (C)

During a seizure, restraining someone can cause injury to both the person having the seizure and the caregiver. Seizures involve unpredictable, sometimes forceful movements. Holding or pinning limbs, head, or the body can lead to fractures, dislocations, facial injuries, neck or spine harm, or airway problems if movement is restricted or the person is pressed against a surface. Because of these risks, the safer approach is to clear the area of hard or sharp objects, cushion the person’s head, loosen tight clothing, and gently turn the person onto their side after the convulsions stop if it’s safe to do so. Time the event and seek emergency help if the seizure lasts more than five minutes, if another seizure starts soon after, or if there are signs of trouble breathing or injury. Remember, restraining does not stop a seizure faster and can worsen outcomes by causing injury.