During a seizure in a pregnant patient in triage, which action is contraindicated?

During a seizure in a pregnant patient in triage, which action is contraindicated?

• A. Place the client's head in the nurse's lap
• B. Administer oxygen
• C. Monitor tonic-clonic activity
• D. Place an oral airway into the client's mouth

Answer: (D)

Airway protection is the priority when a patient is seizing. In pregnancy, the risk of aspiration from saliva or vomiting is particularly important, so any action that could introduce a foreign object into the mouth during active convulsions is avoided. An oral airway should not be inserted while the seizure is ongoing because the patient may bite it, it can cause dental and soft-tissue injury, and it can obstruct the airway if placed incorrectly or if secretions pool around it. Instead, focus on keeping the airway open by gently turning the patient to the side (recovery or lateral position) to allow secretions to drain, loosening tight clothing, and preparing suction if needed. Providing supplemental oxygen helps maintain maternal and fetal oxygenation during the event, and monitoring seizure activity guides whether additional interventions are required. The other actions—supporting the head to protect it, placing the patient in a position that aids breathing, and ensuring oxygen delivery—are appropriate and beneficial in this scenario.

Airway protection is the priority when a patient is seizing. In pregnancy, the risk of aspiration from saliva or vomiting is particularly important, so any action that could introduce a foreign object into the mouth during active convulsions is avoided. An oral airway should not be inserted while the seizure is ongoing because the patient may bite it, it can cause dental and soft-tissue injury, and it can obstruct the airway if placed incorrectly or if secretions pool around it. Instead, focus on keeping the airway open by gently turning the patient to the side (recovery or lateral position) to allow secretions to drain, loosening tight clothing, and preparing suction if needed. Providing supplemental oxygen helps maintain maternal and fetal oxygenation during the event, and monitoring seizure activity guides whether additional interventions are required. The other actions—supporting the head to protect it, placing the patient in a position that aids breathing, and ensuring oxygen delivery—are appropriate and beneficial in this scenario.