In a recent survey, two thirds of parents said they had never been taught to recognise or treat the most common type of seizures in young children. One in 20 children will have a febrile seizure, yet many parents don’t know what they are and said they would not be confident about what to do if one happened. The British Red Cross is launching a new video on the topic .
Febrile seizures are a form of convulsions caused by fever. The British Red Cross is releasing a new video on the topic as part of their First Aid Rapped up campaign in advance of World First Aid Day on 12 September. The 50-second video, created by Chris Sweeney, director of music videos for Sam Smith, Paloma Faith and Lily Allen features rapping toddlers and babies to get across the first aid advice. The Red Cross has also developed a free baby and child first aid app.
Febrile seizure first aid advice:
1. The baby or child may arch their back, stiffen their body and have clenched fists. They look red-faced, are hot to touch and sweating.
Their eyes may roll upwards and they may hold their breath.
2. Protect the baby or child from injury. Do not restrain them.
Remove objects that may injure the baby or child while they are having the seizure. Use a blanket or clothing to protect their head from injury.
3. Remove outer clothing to help cool them. Febrile seizures are caused by a raised temperature so it is important to cool the baby or child. If the room they are in is hot, ensure there is a flow of fresh air (e.g. open a window).
4. When the seizure is over, help the baby or child to rest on their side with their head tilted back. If the symptoms continue or it is their first seizure, seek medical advice. Helping them to lie on their side with their head back will help them to keep breathing.
Watch the video and download the free Red Cross baby and child first aid app