Epilepsy and seizures + Airway compromise risk

Question 1

When considering airway compromise in unconscious patients, what must be examined for?

Answer 1

1. Snoring
2. Stridor
3. Abnormal chest and abdominal movement
4. Lack of fogging in the oxygen mask

Question 2

Why would a patient with seizures who has received Diazepam and is vomiting be a concern?

Answer 2

Concerns for airway compromise due to choking on their vomit/secretions

Benzodiazepines can cause central depression and vomiting

Question 3

For a patient who is vomiting or having excessive secretions, what management is performed?

Answer 3

1. The use of suction
2. Simple airway manoeuvres and positioning
3. Simple airway adjuncts

Question 4

What position should a seizing patient be put in instead of head tilt chin lift or jaw thrust?

Answer 4

Recovery position - left side to avoid aspiration

Question 5

What airway adjunct can be used in a patient who is seizing?

Answer 5

nasopharyngeal airway (as they will likely have their jaw clenched shut as part of their seizure)