West Coast EMT Block One Exam

What should be your action when a child's mother is upset, and the child is calm after having a seizure?

1. Attempt to calm the child's mother, but avoid separating her from her child

2. Ask the father to hold the child while you assess him

3. Reassure the child's mother that seizures are common

4. Give the child a favorite toy to hold during assessment

The correct answer is: Ask the father to hold the child while you assess him

The most appropriate action in this scenario is to ask the father to hold the child while you assess him. This approach allows you to prioritize the assessment of the child, which is critical after a seizure. Assessing the child's condition is essential to ensure they are stable, and having the father hold the child can provide both safety and stability. It also allows the mother to express her emotions without the added stress of having to hold the child, which can be crucial for her emotional well-being and ability to cope with the situation. Maintaining a calm environment for the child during the assessment is important as it can help ensure the child remains relaxed and unobstructed in their recovery. The father's support in holding the child can offer comfort and assurance, allowing the assessment to proceed effectively. While attempting to calm the mother, reassuring her, or providing a toy may seem helpful, these actions do not directly contribute to the immediate need to assess and manage the child's post-seizure condition. In emergency situations, prioritizing patient care is critical, and this choice facilitates both the child's and the parent's needs effectively.