How should a seizure be managed during flight?

• A. Keep passenger safe from injury; protect head; do not restrain; call medical assistance; monitor.
• B. Restrain the passenger to stop movement.
• C. Place a pillow under the head and move away.
• D. Shout for attention and leave.

Answer: (A)

During flight, the priority is to keep the person safe from injury while the seizure runs its course. Protecting the head and cushioning it if possible helps prevent head injury, but you should not try to restrain the person’s movements; restraining can cause harm and airway issues. Clear the area of hazards, loosen anything tight around the neck or chest, and avoid placing anything in the mouth. Call for medical assistance from the crew and, if available, medical professionals on board, and monitor the person’s breathing, level of consciousness, and the duration of the seizure. After the convulsions stop, if it can be done safely, place the person in the recovery position and stay with them until help arrives.

Restraint is not advised because it can cause injury; simply placing a pillow and moving away doesn’t provide continuous safety or medical support; shouting and leaving without assistance fails to address the person’s needs during and after the event.