Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Basic Certification Practice Exam

During which type of partial seizure does a person remain conscious?

1. Simple partial

2. Complex partial

3. Absence seizure

4. Secondary seizure

The correct answer is: Simple partial

In a simple partial seizure, the individual remains fully conscious and is aware of their surroundings while experiencing abnormal electrical activity in a specific area of the brain. This type of seizure often results in localized symptoms such as twitching or unusual sensations, and the person may be able to recall the event afterwards. The ability to maintain consciousness is a distinguishing feature that sets simple partial seizures apart from other types of seizures. Complex partial seizures, on the other hand, involve impaired consciousness or altered awareness, meaning the person may not fully understand what is happening around them or may not be able to respond appropriately. Absence seizures typically manifest as a brief loss of awareness and often occur without any warning, most commonly seen in children. Secondary seizures generally refer to seizures that follow an acute neurological event and can vary in terms of consciousness level. Thus, the ability to remain aware and responsive during a simple partial seizure is what makes it the correct answer.