Seizures in a wheelchair

Do:

• Put the brakes on, to stop the chair from moving
• Let them remain seated in the chair during the seizure (unless they have a care plan which says to move them). Moving them could possibly lead to injuries for both you and them
• If they have a seatbelt or harness on, leave it fastened
• If they don’t have a seatbelt or harness, support them gently, so they don’t fall out of the chair
• Cushion their head and support it gently. A head rest, cushion or rolled up coat can be helpful
• Time how long the seizure lasts

Don’t

• Don’t restrain their movements
• Don’t put anything in their mouth
• Don’t give them anything to eat or drink until they are fully recovered
• Don’t attempt to bring them round

After the seizure

The person’s care plan should give advice on what to do after the seizure has finished. For example, it should say if it is safe to move them from the wheelchair to put them in the recovery position.