Emergency Nursing Pediatric Course (ENPC) Practice Test

Assessing airway and breathing stability is critical for a postictal patient because following a seizure, individuals may have compromised airway integrity or impaired respiratory function due to loss of consciousness, muscle relaxation, or possible aspiration of secretions. Ensuring that the airway is clear and that the patient is breathing adequately is paramount to prevent hypoxia and other complications.

In the postictal state, the patient's ability to maintain their airway may be impaired, and they may be unable to protect it themselves. Monitoring the airway and breathing can help healthcare providers intervene promptly if there is any deterioration in respiratory status.

While providing fluids, administering oral glucose, and documenting seizure length are also important nursing actions, they are secondary to the immediate need to verify and ensure that the patient's airway and breathing are stable. Without proper airway management, other interventions may be ineffective or harmful.