Febrile seizures can be incredibly frightening for a parent to witness. However, they are common in babies and children and often not serious. Cornwall Resus offer some expert advice and talk you through some first aid tips.What is a Febrile seizure? A febrile seizure (also sometimes called a febrile convulsion) is a fit that can happen when a child has a fever. Around one in 20 children will have at least one febrile seizure at some point. They most often occur between the ages of 6 months – 3 years. Almost all children make a complete recovery after having a febrile seizure.Febrile seizures usually last for a few minutes. Signs of a febrile seizure can be arched back, clenched fists a stiff body and your baby or child is usually hot to touch. FIRST AID STEPS…
- Protect your baby/child from injury by moving any objects they may hurt themselves on.
- Try and cool them down, remove any excess clothing or open a window if the room is hot.
- If you are able to place them on their side then do so, if the seizure is preventing you from doing this then do it as soon as they have stopped.
- If this is your baby/child’s first febrile seizure, or it lasts more than 5 minutes take them to your nearest hospital or call 999 for an ambulance. It is unlikely to be anything serious but it is best to check.
- If they have had febrile seizures before and this seizure has lasted less than 5 minutes then call your GP or 111 for advice.
- Always stay with your baby/child and never attempt to put anything in their mouth.
Cornwall Resus are experts in Baby & Child First Aid and Life Saving training.t: 07503 834185 www.cornwallresus.co.uk www.facebook.com/CornwallResus