How to record a seizure
Information for patients from the Neurology Department
This leaflet shows you how to record a clear video safely
Why record a seizure?
A clear video helps doctors see what is happening and choose the right tests and treatments more quickly.
✅ Share this leaflet with family or caregivers.
✅ If you are on your own consider setting up a camera at home.
✅ Keep a smartphone or camera nearby.
✅ Make sure the device is charged and ready.
What should I avoid whilst recording?
Your safety always comes first.
❌ Do not put yourself or the person at risk.
❌ Do not hold the person down.
❌ Do not put anything in the person’s mouth.
❌ Move away dangerous objects.
❌ Do not block the view with objects.
Stop filming and call 999 if:
The person is finding it difficult to breathe.
The person injures themselves.
The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
How should I record the seizure?
Most videos are taken by a family member or carer.
If you do not have a smartphone any camera is fine. If you are alone, focus on the person’s safety and record what you can.
If it is safe to film, follow the instructions below.
✅ Place the phone on a stable surface, or hold it at chest level.
✅ Use the main (back) camera if you can.
✅ Hold your phone sideways (landscape).
✅ Make sure there is good light.
✅ Try to film the whole body.
✅ Record sound, such as breathing or speech.
✅ If it is safe, keep filming until the person has recovered.
✅ Do your best to respect the person’s dignity and privacy.
Additional tips: ask questions if you can while recording
Questions to ask during the seizure
Can you squeeze my hand?
Remember this word (DOG).
Can you tell me your name?
Can you tell me your date of birth?
Where are we now?
Questions to ask when the seizure ends
Can you squeeze my hand now?
Do you remember the word I told you?
Can you lift your arms?
Did you feel anything before it started?
Can you tell me where you are?
Do you know what just happened?
Was this like your usual seizure?
What should I do next?
Keep the video safe and write down any warning signs.
Share the video with your doctor.
You can choose to store the video in your electronic health record. Ask your doctor for more information.
What will my doctor do next?
You can watch and talk about the video with your doctor.
Your doctor may ask another specialist to look at it.
Only NHS doctors can see the video, and only with your permission.
East Kent Hospitals: medical education
Our NHS Trust helps train new doctors. If you agree, your video may be used for teaching to help doctors learn and care for patients better.
What do you think of this leaflet?
We welcome feedback, whether positive or negative, as it helps us to improve our care and services.
If you would like to give us feedback about this leaflet, please fill in our short online survey. Either scan the QR code below, or use the web link. We do not record your personal information, unless you provide contact details and would like to talk to us some more.
If you would rather talk to someone instead of filling in a survey, please call the Patient Voice Team.
Patient Voice Team
Telephone: 01227 868605
Email