Question About Seizures From A Student

EricJRN, MSN, RN · Mar 23, 2006

You could certainly do that if the patient is seizing for some time, but an NRB might be even more appropriate and easier to manipulate. If the pt is moving back and forth rapidly with tonic-clonic activity, might be difficult to get the nasal prongs of the NC right where you want them. And remember not to stick anything inside the pt's mouth.

TexasPediRN · Mar 23, 2006

I know this may seem like a stupid question to all you experienced nurses out there but...ok, here goes. If a client is having a seizure and he/she turns blue...do you start them on O2 @ 2L NC if you have that available. I just want to know the protocols to this. Thank you

Please remember that there are no stupid questions in nursing. If you dont know something, you ask. A patients life is at stake. Better to be safe then sorry. Never assume anything. Therefore, good question :)

As for seizures, I agree with the above poster. And yes, you could use 2L NC- that is standard. 2LPM wont hurt anyone, but if you had a COPD'r, anything above 2 LPM is unacceptable and can hurt them. However, if you are not in a hospital setting and someone turns blue - 911 is your friend.

Lastly, welcome to these boards. You will find a vast amount of useful information on these boards. Look around!

99_99africa · Mar 23, 2006

How much oxygen is the patient getting during a seizure if they are blue, none!

Cautionary measures, call for doctor, or summons help. Turning a patient on your own left arm to right shoulder, left leg over right remember to bend your legs and shift the patient onto his/her side by pulling the buttock towards you. Open the oxygen fully an ambu bag should be placed securely over the patients mouth and nose and suction if possible or allow secretions to drain out of the mouth.

EricJRN, MSN, RN · Mar 23, 2006

if you had a COPD'r, anything above 2 LPM is unacceptable and can hurt them

I know nursing profs still love to teach it, but most current research shows that the hypoxic drive theory isn't really applicable to a situation where the pt will only need oxygen for a few minutes.

And an Ambu-Bag, as the other poster suggested, would be my absolute last resort. If you've ever tried to achieve adequate mask seal on a seizing pt, you know the meaning of the word 'futility.'

I try not to be a hard-head, but I'd stick with a non-rebreather. :)

TexasPediRN · Mar 24, 2006

I know nursing profs still love to teach it, but most current research shows that the hypoxic drive theory isn't really applicable to a situation where the pt will only need oxygen for a few minutes.

Interesting...but it does make sense :)

Good to know, thanks!

NURSERN2B · Mar 24, 2006

Thank you so much everyone for the advice. I will remember that for future reference.