What is a common misconception about managing a seizure?

A common misconception about managing a seizure is the belief that you need to restrain the patient. Restraining someone who is having a seizure can lead to further injury for both the individual having the seizure and the person trying to restrain them. During a seizure, the muscles may be contracting and the person may have involuntary movements; attempting to hold them down can cause muscle strains, joint dislocations, or even more severe injuries. Instead, the appropriate response is to create a safe environment, ensuring that the individual is protected from potential harm, and allowing the seizure to run its course, which typically lasts just a few moments.

It's important to follow appropriate seizure management protocols that include placing the person on their side to help keep their airway clear and cushioning their head if possible, rather than attempting to restrain them. Understanding this helps in providing the right care and alleviating potential injuries during such episodes.