Ch 4 Flashcards
What is epilepsy?
A chronic condition marked by recurrent, unprovoked seizures caused by abnormal brain activity.
Define ‘seizure.’
A sudden burst of uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain.
What’s the difference between a seizure and convulsion?
A seizure refers to abnormal brain activity; a convulsion involves physical, involuntary muscle contractions.
What defines Primary (Idiopathic) epilepsy?
No identifiable cause; often starts in childhood and involves generalized seizures.
What defines Secondary epilepsy?
Caused by trauma, infection, stroke, or brain injury.
What are simple partial seizures?
Seizures where awareness is preserved; symptoms depend on the affected brain area.
What are complex partial seizures?
Seizures with impaired consciousness, often with repetitive behaviors.
What is a tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizure?
Seizure with a tonic phase (stiffening) followed by a clonic phase (jerking); includes loss of consciousness.
Define status epilepticus.
A medical emergency where a seizure lasts >5 minutes or repeated seizures occur without recovery.
What are the goals of antiepileptic drug (AED) therapy?
Control seizures, minimize side effects, and improve quality of life.
How do AEDs work (simplified)?
They stabilize neurons, alter ion movement, and reduce abnormal nerve activity.
First-line drug for acute seizure or status epilepticus?
Benzodiazepines (e.g., lorazepam, diazepam).
Which AED requires slow IV infusion and only in normal saline?
Phenytoin (Dilantin).
What is a key side effect of phenytoin?
Gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth).
What is the role of carbamazepine?
Blocks sodium channels, used for seizure control, risk of Stevens-Johnson syndrome.
What is valproic acid used for?
Resistant seizures; inhibits GABA breakdown.
Gabapentin is structurally similar to what neurotransmitter?
GABA.
What’s a nursing consideration for oral AEDs?
Take at the same time daily, with food, and avoid crushing extended-release forms.
Why is AED therapy often lifelong?
Stopping abruptly can cause rebound seizures.
What are key nursing assessments before starting AEDs?
Liver function, CBC, pregnancy test, vital signs, drug history.
