Febrile_Convulsion_Flashcards COPY
What is the age range for febrile convulsions?
6 months to 6 years.
What should be done to protect the child during a seizure?
Cushion their head, do not restrain or put anything in their mouth, remove harmful objects nearby.
When should an ambulance be called during a febrile convulsion?
If the seizure lasts > 5 mins, call an ambulance OR give rescue medication (buccal midazolam or rectal diazepam). If seizure ongoing, twitching ongoing, or another seizure starts before the child regains consciousness.
What are the recommended doses of buccal midazolam for different age groups?
6 months - 11 months = 2.5 mg, 1-4 years = 5 mg, 5-9 years = 7.5 mg.
What are the recommended doses of rectal diazepam for different age groups?
6 months - 1 year = 5 mg, 2-11 years = 5-10 mg.
What should be measured if the child cannot be roused or is convulsing?
Measure blood glucose if the child cannot be roused or is convulsing.
What are the steps for managing a child after a febrile seizure?
Identify and manage the cause of the fever, use the NICE traffic light system to assess likelihood of serious illness, arrange immediate hospital assessment if necessary, provide home care instructions if appropriate.
When should a child be urgently admitted for hospital assessment after a febrile seizure?
First febrile seizure, second seizure in a child not assessed before, < 18 months old, diagnostic uncertainty, complex febrile seizure, focal neurological deficit, decreased level of consciousness prior to seizure, seizure recurrence within same febrile illness, child recently on antibiotics, anxious parents.
What information should be given to parents about febrile convulsions?
Explain that febrile convulsions are not the same as epilepsy, risk of future epilepsy is only slightly higher than the general population, short-lasting seizures are not harmful, 1/3 children will have another febrile convulsion, advise on what to do during a seizure, explain about managing fever.
What advice should be given to parents about managing fever in a child with febrile convulsions?
Reducing fever does not prevent recurrence, explain when and how to use paracetamol or ibuprofen, maintain adequate fluid intake, seek medical advice if symptoms persist, continue routine immunisations, do not prescribe drugs to manage or prevent future seizures unless advised by a specialist.
