A nurse is caring for an 8-year-old child who has a new onset of generalized seizures. Which of the following interventions should the nurse include in the plan of care?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Loosen restrictive clothing during a seizure: Loosening tight clothing, especially around the neck, helps maintain airway patency and promotes adequate breathing during a seizure. This intervention reduces the risk of airway obstruction and supports overall safety without interfering with seizure activity. B. Restrain the child's arms during a seizure: Restraining a child during a seizure can cause musculoskeletal injury and does not stop seizure activity. Allowing the seizure to run its course while protecting the child from harm is the safer and recommended approach. C. Administer oral valproic acid during a seizure: Oral medications should not be given during an active seizure due to the high risk of aspiration. Antiseizure medications are administered as prescribed when the child is stable, not during the seizure episode itself. D. Elevate the head of the bed to 30° during a seizure: During an active generalized seizure, the priority is to place the child on their side rather than elevating the head of the bed. Side-lying positioning helps prevent aspiration and allows secretions to drain more effectively.