During a seizure, what is a key step to prevent aspiration?

Turning the patient’s head to the side during a seizure is a key step to prevent aspiration. This position helps facilitate the drainage of any fluids from the mouth, reducing the risk of choking or inhaling vomit or saliva into the lungs, which can lead to aspiration pneumonia or other respiratory complications. In emergency situations like seizures, protecting the airway is paramount, and positioning the patient properly plays a critical role in ensuring their safety.

While placing a blanket under the patient or holding their body still might be well-intentioned actions, these do not directly address the risk of aspiration. Administering water during or immediately after a seizure is inappropriate as it poses a choking hazard, since the patient's swallowing reflex may be impaired, making them unable to swallow safely. Turning the head to the side clearly focuses on maintaining a clear airway and preventing potential complications associated with aspiration during seizure activity.