A nurse is caring for a school-age child who is experiencing a tonic-clonic seizure. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Prevent movement of the child's extremities is incorrect. Attempting to prevent movement during a tonic-clonic seizure is unsafe. The nurse should avoid restraining the child, as this can cause injury. The focus should be on ensuring safety during the seizure. B. Administer magnesium sulfate to the child is incorrect. Magnesium sulfate is used for certain conditions, such as preeclampsia in pregnant women or seizures due to eclampsia, but it is not typically used to manage tonic-clonic seizures in children. Anticonvulsant medications or emergency interventions are more appropriate. C. Put a tongue blade between the child's teeth is incorrect. Inserting a tongue blade or any object into the mouth during a seizure is dangerous, as it can lead to injury to the mouth, teeth, or airway. The nurse should not attempt to put anything in the child's mouth. D. Place a folded blanket under the child's head is correct. The priority during a tonic-clonic seizure is to protect the child from injury. Placing a folded blanket or soft padding under the head helps prevent head trauma if the child falls to the ground during the seizure. The nurse should also ensure the environment is clear of sharp objects.