During a seizure, what is the rescuer's primary concern?

The primary concern of the rescuer during a seizure is to ensure the safety of the individual experiencing the event. Moving objects that may cause injury is crucial, as seizures can lead to uncontrolled movements, increasing the risk of the person hurting themselves on nearby furniture, sharp objects, or other hazards. By clearing the space around the person, the rescuer can help minimize potential injuries and keep the environment as safe as possible during the seizure.

In contrast, while keeping the patient calm is important overall, the person having a seizure may not be in a state to respond to reassurance. Administering medication may be necessary in some cases, but this generally falls outside the scope of immediate first aid as it typically requires a medical professional. Monitoring the patient’s breathing is also essential but is often part of the ongoing assessment after ensuring the area is safe; thus, the immediate priority remains the removal of dangerous objects.