The padded tongue blade, often referred to as a padded bite block, is primarily used in medical settings as a precautionary measure during seizure activity. Its primary purpose is to prevent the patient from biting down on their tongue or inadvertently causing injury to their mouth. During a seizure, muscle contractions can lead to uncontrolled movements that may put the tongue at risk of being bitten, which could result in bleeding or severe damage.
In addition, the padded tongue blade is designed to help maintain a clear airway. By keeping the tongue positioned forward, it reduces the chance of airway obstruction. This is vital since breathing difficulties can arise during and after seizures, particularly if the patient is unable to control their movements or if they lose consciousness.
Using a padded tongue blade requires trained medical personnel to ensure it is applied safely and effectively. It’s important to remember that while the padded tongue blade can provide some protection during a seizure, it does not stop the seizure itself. Always call for medical assistance if someone is experiencing a seizure, and do not attempt to restrain their movements.