On The Spot

Directly after our outside meeting had wrapped up we were standing outside talking when one of our newest admissions came walking toward me. He had a strange pent-up expression on his face as though he wanted to say something but was unable to. Suddenly he twirled in a circle and went down in a full grand mal alcoholic seizure, smacking his head off the pavement. Lord, does that ever snap you to attention. These sorts of things don't happen very often but bang, you're into automatic care giving mode. Time check, how long do the convulsions last?, check pupils, is he able to breathe?, cushion head, clear area, call emergency services, call the residence and get information on medical conditions and any medications, as he regains consciousness reassure and comfort, does he respond to questions?

Thankfully I had good assistance and within 10 minutes was able to hand off to ambulance personnel. They were able to quickly stabilize him, make their evaluation and assessment, and then prepare him for transport to hospital. He's had a full work up there and is okay, T.G.

I only wish he'd been a little closer when it came on - I might have been able to catch him and save him a very sore head.