What is the initial management step for an adolescent presenting with status epilepticus?

What is the initial management step for an adolescent presenting with status epilepticus?

• A. IV glucose
• B. Stabilize airway
• C. Arterial blood gas
• D. IV diazepam therapy

Answer: (B)

The first priority in status epilepticus is stabilizing the airway. Ongoing seizures can compromise breathing, cause hypoxia, and lead to aspiration of secretions or vomitus. If the airway isn’t patent and ventilation isn’t adequate, brain injury risk increases and it becomes harder to deliver any medications effectively. So you position the patient for an open airway, suction secretions, provide supplemental oxygen, and be prepared for advanced airway management if needed. Only after the airway is secured should you proceed with pharmacologic seizure control (for example, IV benzodiazepines) and other interventions like obtaining IV access and checking glucose.

The first priority in status epilepticus is stabilizing the airway. Ongoing seizures can compromise breathing, cause hypoxia, and lead to aspiration of secretions or vomitus. If the airway isn’t patent and ventilation isn’t adequate, brain injury risk increases and it becomes harder to deliver any medications effectively. So you position the patient for an open airway, suction secretions, provide supplemental oxygen, and be prepared for advanced airway management if needed. Only after the airway is secured should you proceed with pharmacologic seizure control (for example, IV benzodiazepines) and other interventions like obtaining IV access and checking glucose.