North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What is a notable sign of a tonic-clonic seizure?

1. Localized muscle twitching

2. Bilateral movement with muscle rigidity

3. Brief loss of consciousness

4. Uncontrollable hiccups

The correct answer is: Bilateral movement with muscle rigidity

A tonic-clonic seizure, also known as a grand mal seizure, is characterized by a distinct pattern of physical symptoms that occur in two phases: the tonic phase and the clonic phase. The tonic phase involves a sudden onset of muscle rigidity, where the individual typically loses consciousness and their body becomes stiff. This is followed by the clonic phase, which manifests as rhythmic jerking movements that affect both sides of the body. The presence of bilateral movement with muscle rigidity is a hallmark sign that distinguishes tonic-clonic seizures from other types of seizures, such as focal seizures that involve localized twitching or jerking in one part of the body. The rigidity and bilateral movement in tonic-clonic seizures highlight a widespread and simultaneous brain disturbance, leading to loss of consciousness and the typical physical manifestations associated with these events. In summary, the characteristic signs of muscle rigidity combined with bilateral movements specifically indicate a tonic-clonic seizure, making this the correct choice.