North Carolina EMT State Practice Exam

What symptom might be observed during a complex partial seizure?

1. Twitching of large muscle groups

2. Eye blinking and lip smacking

3. Complete absence of motor activity

4. Intense muscle rigidity

The correct answer is: Eye blinking and lip smacking

During a complex partial seizure, a person may exhibit specific, often repetitive behaviors, including eye blinking and lip smacking. These symptoms arise from abnormal electrical activity in the brain's temporal lobe, which can affect consciousness and lead to automatic, non-purposeful movements. Complex partial seizures typically do not involve the entire body or result in generalized jerking movements, as seen in generalized seizures. Instead, the individual may appear to be awake while experiencing altered awareness or confusion, often engaging in automatic behaviors without full awareness of their actions. This aspect helps to differentiate these seizures from other types that involve more widespread muscle group involvement or total lack of consciousness. Overall, the presence of automatic movements like eye blinking and lip smacking can serve as key indicators that a complex partial seizure is occurring, highlighting the unique characteristics of this seizure type.