Which seizure type is characterized by the patient stiffening followed by jerking movements?

The seizure type characterized by a sequence of stiffening followed by jerking movements is known as a tonic-clonic seizure. During the tonic phase, the patient experiences muscle stiffening, leading to a rigid body posture. This is often followed by the clonic phase, which consists of rhythmic, jerking movements of the limbs and body.

Tonic-clonic seizures, previously referred to as grand mal seizures, encompass these two distinct phases, making them a comprehensive representation of the patient's seizure activity. This type of seizure reflects a generalized seizure that affects the entire brain and can often result in loss of consciousness.