The correct answer is B) prevent patient from hurting himself. During an epileptic seizure, the most important consideration is to protect the patient from injuring themselves. This involves clearing the area around the patient of any objects they could hit or harm themselves on, and gently restraining them to prevent them from thrashing around and potentially injuring their head or limbs. The other answer choices are not the most appropriate actions - A) giving artificial respiration is not necessary unless the patient stops breathing, C) removing clothing and placing them in a bed is not the priority, and D) keeping the patient awake or making them walk could potentially worsen the situation. Protecting the patient's safety is the primary concern when assisting someone experiencing an epileptic seizure.