Florida State Paramedic Practice Exam

Which type of seizure involves muscle contraction and relaxation?

1. Petit Mal

2. Grand Mal

3. Myoclonic

4. Complex Partial

The correct answer is: Grand Mal

The type of seizure that involves muscle contraction and relaxation is described by the term "Grand Mal." This seizure, also known as tonic-clonic seizure, is characterized by two phases: the tonic phase, where the muscles become rigid and the individual loses consciousness, followed by the clonic phase, which involves rhythmic jerking and relaxing of the muscles. This cycle of contraction and relaxation is a hallmark of the Grand Mal seizure, making it distinguishable from other types. In contrast, Petit Mal seizures, or absence seizures, typically involve brief lapses in consciousness without the dramatic muscle contractions associated with Grand Mal seizures. Myoclonic seizures consist of quick, involuntary muscle jerks which do not involve the extended contraction and relaxation seen in tonic-clonic seizures. Complex Partial seizures usually result in impaired awareness and may involve abnormal movements, but they do not typically exhibit the same type of widespread muscle contraction and relaxation as the Grand Mal seizure.