What preventative measure can an assistant take for a patient experiencing an epileptic seizure?

Protecting the patient from self-injury is the most appropriate preventative measure an assistant can take when a patient is experiencing an epileptic seizure. During a seizure, patients can be unaware of their surroundings and may involuntarily thrash or move erratically, which can lead to injuries such as cuts, bruises, or fractures.

By removing potentially hazardous objects from the vicinity and positioning the patient safely, the assistant can help minimize the risk of injury. This might involve placing a cushion or soft surface under the patient's head and gently guiding away sharp objects or obstacles.

Administering CPR immediately or calling emergency services might be necessary in severe situations, but the first step should always be to ensure the immediate safety of the patient during the seizure. Laying the patient on their back is typically discouraged as it can block the airway and make breathing more difficult; instead, the patient is usually positioned onto their side to help maintain an open airway and facilitate breathing.