Seizure Nursing Management for the NCLEX

Types of Seizures

• Generalized tonic-clonic: Loss of consciousness, stiffening (tonic), then rhythmic jerking (clonic)
• Absence: Brief staring spells, common in children
• Myoclonic: Brief, shock-like jerks
• Status epilepticus: Continuous seizure activity >5 minutes - medical emergency

Nursing Interventions During a Seizure

• Stay with the client and call for help
• Protect from injury - clear area, pad side rails
• Do NOT restrain or put anything in the mouth
• Turn to side (recovery position) to maintain airway
• Time the seizure
• Suction available for post-ictal period

Post-Ictal Care

• Maintain airway, monitor vital signs
• Reorient the client (confusion is common)
• Document: type, duration, body parts involved, preceding events

Review our Neurological Nursing deep dive and Physiological study guide.