What are the s/sx of a patient who is post-ictal?

• A. The patient is often dazed, confused, and may be combative.
• B. The patient is alert and oriented.
• C. The patient has eyelid twitching.
• D. The patient experiences severe headache.

Answer: (A)

After a seizure, the brain goes through a recovery phase called the post-ictal state. During this period, the patient often has altered mental status, appearing dazed or confused, and may be less responsive or disoriented. Agitation or combative behavior can also occur as the person wakes up from the seizure. This pattern reflects the brain recovering from paroxysmal activity and temporary impairment of higher cognitive function.

Being alert and oriented would suggest return to baseline, which is not typical immediately after a seizure. Eyelid twitching can occur during a seizure itself (myoclonus) but is not a defining feature of the post-ictal state. Severe headache can occur after a seizure, but it’s not the hallmark sign of the post-ictal phase and isn’t present in all cases.