Epilepsy

Question 1

Pathophysiology of Epilepsy

Answer 1

Complex disorder of the CNS in which brain function is affected

Question 2

Risk Factors of Epilepsy

Answer 2

1. Family History of seizure of epilepsy
2. Complications during the prenatal, perinatal or postnatal periods
3. Changes in developmental status or delays in developmental milestones
4. Any recent illness, fever, trauma, or toxin exposure

Question 3

Signs and Symptoms of Epilepsy

Answer 3

Recurrent or unprovoked seizures are the clinical manifestations of epilepsy and result from disruption of electrical communication among the neurons of the brain

Question 4

Labs and Diagnostics for Epilepsy

Answer 4

1. Lumbar Puncture- to rule out meningitis
2. CT
3. EEG
4. Video EEG
5. Serum glucose, electrolytes and calcium- to rule out metabolic causes
6. MRI

Question 5

Complications

Answer 5

1. Anoxia
2. Hypoxemia
3. Glucose level changes
4. Traumatic injury
5. Drug toxicity
6. Incontinence

Question 6

Nursing Intervention: Managing Treatment

Answer 6

1. Provide instructions on administering anticonvulsants
   > Common Adverse Effects
   > The need to continue the medication
2. Reduce medication noncompliance

Question 7

Nursing Intervention: Providing Family Support and Education

Answer 7

1. Educate everyone (child, family, teacher)
2. Encourage parents to be involved in the management of the child’s seizure
3. Place only necessary restrictions on the child

Question 8

How to Respond When Your Child Has A Seizure

Answer 8

1. Remain calm
2. If child is standing, ease child to the ground
3. Time seizure episode
4. Tight clothing and jewelry around the neck should be loosen
5. Place child on one side and open airway
6. Do not restrain the child
7. Remove hazard items
8. Do not forcibly open the jaw
9. Document length of seizure and movement, also cyanosis, loss of bladder or bowel control
10. Remain with child until fully conscious
11. Call EMS if:
    > The child stopped breathing
    > Any injury has occurred
    > Seizure lasts more than 5 mins
    > This is the child’s first seizure
    > Child is unresponsive to painful stimuli after seizure