Seizure

Question 1

What is seizure?

Answer 1

● a transient, uncontrolled electrical discharge of neurons in the brain that interrupts normal function
● accompany a variety of disorders
● or they may occur without any apparent cause.

Question 2

what are the types of seizure?

Answer 2

1. Generalized onset (affect 2 hemispheres of brain)
   Tonic-Clonic Seizure: (formally called grand mal)
   ●most common generalized-onset (2 hemispheres) motor seizure
   ●lose consciousness
   ●If sitting or standing the patient will fall to the ground
   ○Tonic Phase: the body stiffens for 10 to 20 seconds
   ○Clonic Phase: extremities jerk for 30 to 40 seconds.
2. Focal onset (affect 1 hemisphere of brain)
   
   • Begins in one hemisphere of the brain.
     - Affects sensory, motor, cognitive, or emotional areas.
     Symptoms:
     - Emotional outbursts or odd behavior.
     - Lip-smacking or repetitive movements.
3. Unknown onset: When the origin or onset of the seizure is unclear.

*Status Epilepticus- a state of continuous or recurring rapid succession seizure activity where the patient doesn’t return to consciousness between seizures.
● lasting more than 5 minutes
● Most likely requires drug therapy to stop
● increased mortality rate
THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY!!!!

Question 3

what are the seizure phase?

Answer 3

Seizure Phases:

Prodromal Phase: Changes in behavior or sensations hours/days before a seizure.

Aural Phase: A warning feeling or sensation just before a seizure.

Ictal Phase: The actual seizure activity (from start to end).

Postictal Phase: The recovery period after a seizure.

Question 4

What are the s/s of seizure?

Answer 4

During: cyanosis, excessive salivation, tongue or cheek-biting, incontinence

After: may feel sore, tired, may sleep for several hours

Question 5

What are the nursing interventions for seizure?

Answer 5

ABC’S!!
- Ensure patient’s airway
- Protect patient from injury: padded side rails, turn the patient on their left side, do not put anything in the patient’s mouth, remove or loosen tight clothing
- Establish IV access
- Stay with the patient (the whole time of the seizure)
- Anticipate giving anti-seizure medication or rescue meds such as LORAZEPAM (ATIVAN)
- Set up suction
- Evaluate the need for intubation by accessing the gag reflex: assist with ventilation as needing.

Question 6

What are the medication for seizure?

Answer 6

Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Benzodiazepines (for emergency use):
- Lorazepam (Ativan) or Diazepam (Valium) may be used for acute seizures in a hospital setting.

Question 7

What are the patient education for seizure?

Answer 7

1.Take Medications as Prescribed:
Take your medication exactly as prescribed to prevent seizures.
Never stop medication without talking to your doctor.

Avoid Triggers:
Get enough sleep.
Reduce stress and avoid flashing lights if they trigger seizures.
Limit alcohol and certain medications.

Safety First:
Wear a medical alert bracelet.
Avoid driving until cleared by your doctor (usually after being seizure-free for a certain period).
Protect yourself during a seizure: don’t bite your tongue, stay away from sharp objects, and stay safe.

What to Do During a Seizure:
Stay calm.
Protect the person: Gently guide them to the floor if possible, and place a soft object under their head.
Do not put anything in their mouth.
Call for help if the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes.

After a Seizure:
Rest and relax after a seizure.
You may feel confused or tired—this is normal.

Question 8

which state of seizure is a MEDICAL EMERGENCY?

Answer 8

Status Epilepticus- a state of continuous or recurring rapid succession seizure activity where the patient doesn’t return to consciousness between seizures.
● lasting more than 5 minutes
● Most likely requires drug therapy to stop
● increased mortality rate
THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY!!!!