Doing so may result in obstructing the airway of the child or a bite to the practitioner. If possible, place a pillow or blanket under the child's head, and loosen the clothing. Do not restrain the child during the seizure, as doing so can cause injury. After the seizure is over, carefully wipe away any saliva or vomit with a washcloth. However, closely observe the child to ensure that breathing is not obstructed and that the area around the patient is clear of items that may cause injury.
Febrile seizures can be frightening, but they are generally harmless, and have no long-term effects.
However, it is appropriate to have the child experiencing a febrile seizure examined by a physician to determine the cause of the fever. Examples of illnesses that may result in high fever and seizures include otitis media, pneumonia, meningitis, encephalitis, Reye's syndrome, and brain abscess. A child's rate of metabolism is normally twice that of an adult. Tachypnea can exacerbate dehydration because of the loss of fluid through respiration. A dry mouth, poor skin turgor, no tears, few wet diapers or strong, dark urine, and sunken eyes or sunken fontanel are all signs of dehydration in the child.