Seizures Flashcards
1
Q
What is a seizure?
A
A single, self-limiting occurrence of ‘jerky’ movements.
Seizures can vary in duration and intensity.
2
Q
What defines epilepsy?
A
Two or more unprovoked and continuous/contiguous seizures.
Epilepsy often requires long-term management.
3
Q
Does a seizure require treatment with anti-epileptic medications or surgery?
A
No- it requires monitoring for safety.
Seizures may resolve on their own without intervention.
4
Q
Are anti-epileptic medications necessary for epilepsy?
A
Yes, they are necessary and life-saving measures are required.
(its in the name)
Surgery may be an option in certain cases.
5
Q
What type of seizure is limited to one hemisphere of the brain?
A
Focal seizure
Focal seizures are limited to one hemisphere of the brain.
6
Q
What type of SEIZURE occurs and engages bilaterally?
A
Generalized seizure
Generalized seizures involve both hemispheres of the brain.
7
Q
What is the classification of seizures that involves epilepsy spasms?
A
Unknown seizures
Unknown seizures are characterized by epilepsy spasms and lack sufficient data for classification.
8
Q
Fill in the blank: Seizures that are related to an acute, reversible condition (identifiable trigger) are classified as _______.
A
Provoked or acquired
Provoked seizures occur as the result of trauma, low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), low blood sodium, high fever, or alcohol or drug abuse.
9
Q
Specific causes of “Acquired” Seizures
A
- Cerebrovascular disease
- Hypoxia – poor tissue O2, Hypoxemia – low SaO2
- Eclampsia - pregnancy high BP
- Fever (childhood) – “convulsion”
- Head injury / TBI – up to 5 of 10 w/ TBI
- Hypertension – 2.5 fold increase risk in elderly
- Central nervous system infections
- Metabolic and toxic conditions – (hyponatremia)
- Brain tumor – frontal, parietal, temporal
- Drug and alcohol withdrawal
- Allergies – kids w/ allergic rhinitis = 76% higher risk
10
Q
What condition can cause seizures during pregnancy?
A
Eclampsia
Eclampsia is a severe complication of pregnancy characterized by seizures.
11
Q
Q: How does eclampsia cause seizures?
A
A: Eclampsia is a pregnancy complication involving severe hypertension, proteinuria, and seizures due to brain edema and ischemia.
12
Q
Q: Why do childhood fevers sometimes cause seizures?
A
A: High fevers in young children can trigger febrile seizures, also known as convulsions, due to increased neuronal excitability.
Febrile: related to fever
13
Q
Q: What is the relationship between traumatic brain (head) injury (TBI) and seizures?
A
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can cause seizures, with up to 50% of patients developing post-traumatic epilepsy.
This statistic highlights the significant risk associated with TBI.
14
Q
Q: How can central nervous system (CNS) infections lead to seizures?
A
A: Infections like meningitis, encephalitis, and brain abscesses cause inflammation, fever, and direct brain damage, triggering seizures.
Infections like meningitis or encephalitis can trigger seizures.
15
Q
Q: What metabolic and toxic conditions can cause seizures?
A
A: Electrolyte imbalances, such as hyponatremia, along with renal failure, hepatic encephalopathy, and toxin exposure, can provoke seizures.
Low sodium levels can lead to seizures among other symptoms.
16
Q
Which brain tumors are commonly associated with seizures?
A
Frontal, parietal, temporal
These regions of the brain are often implicated in seizure activity.
17
Q
Q: Why can drug and alcohol withdrawal cause seizures?
A
A: Abrupt cessation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, or other depressants can cause hyperexcitability in the brain, leading to withdrawal seizures.
Withdrawal from substances can trigger seizures in some individuals.
18
Q
Q: How do allergies increase seizure risk in children?
A
A: Children with allergic rhinitis have a 76% higher risk of seizures due to inflammatory and immune system effects on the brain.
Allergies can be a contributing factor to seizure risk in children.
19
Q
What can cause Seizures in Newbornn and Infants
A
- Severe hypoxia
- Genetic metabolic defects
- Congenital defects involving the CNS
- Alcohol or barbiturate withdrawal
- Birth trauma
- Infections
- Metabolic disorders: hypoglycemia, hypocalcemia, vitamin B6 deficiency
20
Q
What characterizes generalized seizures?
A
- Involves both hemispheres, often causing loss of consciousness (seconds to minutes)
Generalized seizures affect both sides of the brain simultaneously.
21
Q
What are the 2 main types of generalized seizures?
A
- Motor (tonic-clonic)
- Absence seizures
These classifications help in understanding the different manifestations of seizures.
22
Q
What are 5 symptoms of motor (tonic-clonic) seizures?
A
- Muscle stiffness
- Rhythmic jerking
- May result in loss of consciousness
- Falls
- Vocalization
Tonic-clonic seizures can involve both phases: tonic (stiffening) and clonic (jerking).
23
Q
What are absence seizures characterized by?
A
Brief <15 seconds but can lasts up to 30 secs.
Episodes of brief disturbance of brain function
Absence seizures are also known as petit mal seizures.
24
Q
What are common symptoms of absence seizures?
A
- Blank stare - lasting 15-30 secs
- Sudden stop in activity
- Lip smacking
- Eyelid fluttering
- Small hand movements
- No memory of the event
These symptoms can occur without the individual being aware of the seizure.
25
True or False: Individuals remember **absence seizures** after they occur.
False
## Footnote
There is typically no memory of the event associated with absence seizures.
26
Seizures occur in distinct phases.
Name these **4** phases?
1. Prodromal phase
2. Aural phase "Pre-ictal"
3. Ictal phase
4. Postictal phase
27
What is the **prodromal** phase of seizures?
* Early, non-specific Signs/symptoms that occur **BEFORE the full onset of seizure**
* Occur hrs, days, or weeks before seizures.
## Footnote
The prodromal phase may include changes in mood, behavior, or physical sensations.
28
What occurs during the **aural** phase of a seizure?
* Just before or during the seizure
* Specific symptoms, neurologic disturbances
## Footnote
This phase is also referred to as the 'pre-ictal' phase and may involve visual or auditory sensations.
29
What is the ictal phase?
Full seizure activity
## Footnote
This phase is characterized by the actual seizure, which can vary in duration and severity.
30
What is the **postictal** phase?
Recovery period after seizure
## Footnote
This phase can involve confusion, fatigue, and other neurological symptoms as the brain recovers.
31
Q: What is an aura in relation to seizures?
A: An **aura** is a sensory **warning that occurs BEFORE a seizure,** signaling abnormal brain activity.
32
What are 5 common **symptoms** of a seizure aura?
* Nausea or abdominal discomfort
* Faintness or dizziness
* Headache
* Aphasia
* Numbness of hands, lips, or tongue
* Choking or throat sensation
* Unpleasant taste or smell
* Dread
* Dream state
## Footnote
A seizure aura is a warning sign that some people experience before a seizure occurs, often involving sensory or emotional changes.
33
True or False: Headache is a symptom of a seizure aura.
True
34
What does **aphasia** refer to in the context of **seizure auras**?
Aphasia refers to difficulty with language or communication.
35
Fill in the blank: A seizure aura may cause _______ of hands, lips, or tongue.
Numbness
36
How long do Aura's last?
seconds to 60 minutes
(BEFORE a seizure)
37
What is the primary **aim of medication** therapy for **SEIZURES**?
Aimed at prevention; **cure not possible**
## Footnote
Medication therapy focuses on preventing further seizures rather than curing the underlying condition.
38
What is the mechanism by which **seizure medications** work?
**Stabilize** nerve cell membranes and **prevent spread** of epileptic discharge that causes sizure symptoms.
## Footnote
This mechanism helps to control seizures by reducing excessive electrical activity in the brain.
39
What percentage of patients achieve seizure control with medication?
70%
## Footnote
This statistic indicates the effectiveness of medication in managing seizures for a majority of patients.
40
What is the therapeutic range for **Phenobarbital**?
15-40 mcg/ml
41
How long can it take for Phenobarbital to reach **peak levels in the brain**?
Up to 15 minutes
42
What is the **maximum rate** of administration for **Phenobarbital**?
60 mg/min
43
True or False: Too rapid administration of Phenobarbital can cause serious respiratory depression.
True
44
What is a risk of **withdrawing** (stoping abruptly) **Phenobarbital** too quickly?
Can trigger **status epilepticus**
**MEDICAL EMERGENCY!!!!!**
## Footnote
is a medical emergency where a seizure lasts **longer** than 5 minutes **or** multiple seizures occur without the person regaining consciousness in between.
45
What should be monitored closely when administering Phenobarbital?
* Patient
* Ensure patent airway- RESPIRATORY
46
Why should **extravasation** of the vein be **avoided** with Phenobarbital?
*(Fluids leaking out a vessel into surrounding tissue)*
It’s **very alkaline**, making it harsh on tissues causing inflammation, necrosis (tissue death), and severe pain at the injection site.
47
How to prevent extravasation?
* Use a **large, patent vein** for IV administration.
* **Monitor the IV site** closely for redness, swelling, or pain.
* **Administer slowly** to reduce irritation.
* Flush with **normal saline** before and after administration.
48
What is the only solution **compatible** with Phenobarbital?
0.9% NS
49
What are the **3** primary drugs used to **treat generalized tonic-clonic and partial seizures**?
* Phenytoin (Dilantin)
* Carbamazepine (Tegretol),
* Divalproex (Depakote).
*all are anti-epileptic meds*
50
What is a characteristic of **OLDER seizure medications**?
Require constant monitoring
## Footnote
Older medications can have more side effects and interactions.
51
Q: What are 3 key considerations for **phenytoin** (Dilantin)?
* Many side effects
* **take with meals**
* Drug interactions with **birth control pills (BCP)** and a**lcohol (ETOH)**.
52
What are some side effects of phenytoin (Dilantin)?
* **Fatigue is normal**
* sedation indicates toxicity (check levels).
* many drug interactions
## Footnote
Patients are advised to take it with meals.
53
What is an important dietary consideration for patients taking carbamazepine (Tegretol)?
Avoid grapefruit
## Footnote
Grapefruit can **increase** medication **levels** in the body.
54
What are 3 common **side effects** of **carbamazepine** (Tegretol)?
Constipation, dry mouth, drowsiness
## Footnote
These side effects can affect patient compliance.
55
What are the potential side effects of **divalproex** (Depakote)?
* Agitation
* irritability
* depression
* suicidal thoughts
## Footnote
Monitoring for these effects is crucial for patient safety.
56
What organ should be monitored in patients taking divalproex (Depakote)?
Hepatic toxicity (liver)
## Footnote
Liver function tests should be performed periodically.
57
True or False: **Fatigue** is a normal side effect of phenytoin (Dilantin).
True
## Footnote
While fatigue is expected, sedation may indicate toxicity.
58
What are the 3 effective **medications** for **absence, akinetic, and myoclonic seizures?**
* Ethosuximide (Zarontin)
* Divalproex (Depakote)
* Clonazepam (Klonopin).
59
What are the side effects of **Divalproex** (Depakote)?
* N/V
* somnolence
* weight gain
* hepatic toxicity
* GI upset/ulcers **if pills are crushed.**
## Footnote
Divalproex is used for various seizure types.
60
Side effects of **Ethosuximide**
* N/V
* anorexia
* agitation
* aggression
61
True or False: **Divalproex** can lead to weight loss as a side effect.
False
## Footnote
Divalproex is associated with weight gain.
62
List 5 side effects of **Clonazepam** (Klonopin).
* CNS depression
* Drowsiness
* Ataxia *(uncontrolled mvmnt)*
* Nystagmus *(involuntary rhythmic eye mvmnt)*
* Glassy-eyed appearance
63
Q: Why should **anti-seizure drugs** not be discontinued abruptly?
A: Abrupt discontinuation can precipitate seizures.
## Footnote
It is important for patients to **taper off** these medications under medical supervision.
64
List 4 **toxic side effects** of a**nti-seizure** drugs.
* Diplopia (*double vission*)
* Drowsiness
* Ataxia
* Mental slowing
## Footnote
These side effects may vary in severity among different patients.
65
What am I?
**sudden, uncontrolled** bursts of electrical activity happen in the brain, causing **unprovoked seizures**
(uncontrolled movements, staring spells, or confusion).
Epilepsy
66
Q: When are seizures **not considered epilepsy**?
* Having **one** seizure doesn’t mean someone has epilepsy.
* It’s diagnosed when **seizures happen repeatedly** and **without a clear cause** (like fever or injury).
* Seizures that **cease** when the **underlying problem is corrected**
## Footnote
This highlights the importance of identifying the cause of seizures.
67
Is Epilepsy associated with retardation?
No
68
Q: How does p**regnancy affect seizure frequency** in women **with** epilepsy?
A: "Eclamptic" seizure episodes increase by 25% in women with epilepsy.
## Footnote
This **increase** indicates a heightened risk for women with epilepsy who are pregnant.
69
Q: Why are seizures dangerous during pregnancy?
A: Seizures can cause **hypoxia**, which puts both the mother and fetus at risk.
## Footnote
Hypoxia refers to a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues.
70
Q: What is a major concern with anticonvulsant drugs during pregnancy?
Teratogenic properties = cause birth defects.
*(teratos= monster)*
## Footnote
Teratogenic drugs can cause developmental malformations in a fetus.
71
What should women with epilepsy do before planing pregnancy?
Discuss risks & med managment with their healthcare provider
## Footnote
Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial for managing health during pregnancy.
72
What is the **primary goal** when caring for a patient experiencing an eclamptic seizure?
Prevent injury / head trauma
## Footnote
This includes ensuring the patient's safety during seizures.
73
What vital signs should be monitored during an **eclamptic seizure**?
* Respirations & airway
* O2 supplement
## Footnote
Continuous monitoring is critical to ensure adequate oxygenation.
74
What should be auscultated to assess fetal well-being during an eclampsia seizure?
Fetal heart rate to check for fetal distress
## Footnote
Monitoring fetal heart rate is essential to detect any signs of fetal distress.
75
What **medication** is administered for **eclamptic seizures** and how does it work?
Magnesium sulfate – slows electrical conduction and relaxes muscles.
## Footnote
Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent seizures and manage muscle tension, especially in mngmnt of eclampsia
76
What is the **most dangerous form** of epilepsy **complication**?
(not a type of epilepsy- rather a medical emergency)
Tonic-clonic status epilepticus
## Footnote
It can lead to a potentially fatal cascade effect.
77
Q: Why is tonic-clonic status epilepticus so dangerous?
A: The **constant** seizure activity causes **muscles to lock up, preventing gas exchange and respiration, leading to oxygen deprivation and organ failure.**
78
List some complications caused by **tonic-clonic status epilepticus**.
* Ventilatory insufficiency
* Hypoxemia
* Cardiac arrhythmias
* Hyperthermia: *constant contraction produces heat that muscles need*
* Systemic **acidosis**
## Footnote
These complications can occur due to constant seizure activity.
79
True or False: Trauma during a seizure can lead to severe injury and death.
True
## Footnote
Trauma during a seizure can lead to falls, head injuries, fractures, or aspiration, which may be life-threatening
80
Fill in the blank: Tonic-clonic Status Epilepticus causes **everything** to _______.
lock up
## Footnote
This refers to constant seizure activity.
81
How **long** does a seizure have to last to be considered **Status Epilepticus**?
* A seizure lasting 5 minutes or more
* **or** having multiple seizures within a 5-minute period without returning to baseline.
82
A type of Status Epilepticus
Generalized Convulsive Status Epilepticus (GCSE)
## Footnote
A type of seizure where the brain remains in an abnormal electrical state for a prolonged period, but **without visible convulsions (jerking movements).**
83
What defines **Generalized Convulsive** Status Epilepticus?
* A **generalized** convulsion lasting **30 minutes or longer**
* or multiple convulsions occurring so frequently over 30 minutes that the patient does not have time to recover between them.
84
What is status epilepticus?
A: Status Epilepticus is a state of **constant** seizure activity where **multiple seizures occur** **without** **recovery between them.**
## Footnote
It involves no conscious episodes between seizure activity.
85
Q: What happens to the patient during Status Epilepticus?
* There are no conscious episodes between seizures, and **tonic-clonic activity can block respiratory muscle function**, leading to **cerebral anoxia** (lack of oxygen to the brain)
* Immediate treatment is required.
## Footnote
This type of activity can inhibit respiratory muscle function.
86
What is the **immediate treatment concern** for status epilepticus?
Cerebral anoxia
## Footnote
This condition occurs due to a lack of oxygen in the brain.
**Hypoxia**: lack of O2
**Anoxia**: severe form of hypoxia. Complete absence of O2.
87
Is **status epilepticus** self-limiting?
(Improves or resolves on its own)
No- its a LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCY
## Footnote
It is considered a life-threatening emergency.
88
Is status epilepticus predictable?
No- often occurs **without a warning aura**
(a sensation or feeling that typically occurs before a seizure).
## Footnote
Most episodes are not associated with an aura.
89
Q: What happens when the brain uses more energy than it can supply during Status Epilepticus?
A: The **neurons become exhausted and may cease to function**, leading to **permanent brain damage** if not treated promptly.
## Footnote
This can lead to severe neurological consequences.
90
Q: Why is Status Epilepticus considered a neurologic emergency?
A: Because the excessive seizure activity depletes the brain's energy reserves, causing neuron dysfunction and **potential long-term damage to the brain.**
* Neurologic emergency
## Footnote
This indicates an urgent medical condition requiring immediate intervention.
91
What is the primary **medication** used to **treat status epilepticus**?
IV lorazepam (Ativan®)
(CNS depressant)
## Footnote
Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used for its rapid action in treating status epilepticus.
92
What should be monitored closely when administering Lorazepam?
Respirations- CLOSELY
## Footnote
CNS depressants can affect respiratory function, making monitoring critical.
93
How should **IV lorazepam** be ADMINISTERED?
Slowly
## Footnote
Infusing lorazepam too quickly can cause pain at the IV site.
94
Can IV lorazepam be administered continuously?
Yes, to help control seizures in **refractory status epilepticus** (seizures that do not respond to initial treatments).
## Footnote
Continuous administration may be necessary for patients who do not respond to initial treatment.
95
Q: How should lorazepam be administered for status epilepticus?
* drug is Rapid action to control seizures
* dosage should be titrated up (increased) as needed.
## Footnote
Lorazepam acts quickly to control seizures in status epilepticus.
96
After the patient is seizure-free for 24 hours, how should lorazepam be managed?
Wean slowly to avoid withdrawal/complications
## Footnote
Gradual weaning is important to prevent withdrawal symptoms and ensure patient safety.
97
What is another rx treatment for status epilepticus?
IV **diazepam** (Valium®)
(CNS depressant)
## Footnote
Diazepam is a benzodiazepine used for its CNS depressant effects.
98
What should be monitored closely when administering IV diazepam?
Respirations
## Footnote
Due to its CNS depressant properties, respiratory depression is a risk.
99
Should IV diazepam be **diluted with other solutions or drugs**?
No
## Footnote
Diluting diazepam can lead to **precipitation**, which is dangerous.
100
How should IV diazepam be administered?
Directly into vein or y-port closest to site
## Footnote
Proper administration technique is crucial for effectiveness.
101
What is the rate of administration for IV diazepam in adults?
given slowly at rate of 5 mg/min for adults
## Footnote
This rate ensures rapid action while minimizing risks.
102
What is the administration rate for pediatric patients receiving IV diazepam?
0.25 mg/kg over 3 minutes
## Footnote
Pediatric dosing must consider weight for safety.
103
True or False: IV diazepam has a **rapid action**.
True
## Footnote
Diazepam is known for its quick onset of action in emergency situations.
104
Lorazepam & diazepam must be followed with _______ drugs.
long-acting drugs
## Footnote
Lorazepam and Diazepam are **short-acting benzodiazepines** that rapidly control seizures, but their effects are not long-lasting.
105
Name a long-acting drug that is given
in Status epilepticus
phenytoin (Dilantin ®)
106
What is the **loading dose** of phenytoin (Dilantin ®)?
10-20 mg/kg - followed by a maintenance dose
## Footnote
This is the initial dose given to achieve therapeutic levels quickly.
107
Phenytoin:
Seizure control generally occurs within _______ minutes.
15-20 minutes
## Footnote
This timeframe indicates how quickly treatment can be effective.
108
Phenytoin:
What is the lethal dose for adults?
2-5 gm
## Footnote
This reflects the dangerous threshold for overdose in adults.
109
Phenytoin is very alkaline. True or False?
True
## Footnote
This characteristic affects how it should be administered.
110
DO NOT MIX **phenytoin** with other _______ medications.
IV medications
## Footnote
Mixing can cause adverse reactions or reduce efficacy.
111
Phenytoin:
**Always** flush the line with _______ before & after administration.
NS
## Footnote
NS refers to Normal Saline, which is used to clear the line.
112
What is the administration rate for **phenytoin**?
25-50 mg / min
## Footnote
This rate is crucial for safe administration of the drug.
113
What are additional precipitating factors that can trigger seizures?
Some factors include:
* Birth defects or injuries at birth
* Anoxic episodes (lack of oxygen to the brain)
* CNS trauma (Central Nervous System injuries)
* Brain tumors
* Metabolic disorders (e.g., low blood sugar, electrolyte imbalances)
* Alcoholism (chronic use or withdrawal)
* Exposure to metals (e.g., lead, mercury) or carbon monoxide
* Hepatic or renal failure (liver or kidney dysfunction)
* Non-compliance with anti-seizure medications
* Barbiturate or alcohol withdrawal
* Cocaine or amphetamine use
## Footnote
These factors can significantly increase the risk of seizure activity in individuals.
114
Q: What physical injury should be assessed during a seizure?
* Bitten tongue
* Soft-tissue damage
* Cyanosis (bluish skin due to low oxygen), especially if it lasts less than 60 seconds
* Abnormal respiratory rate
## Footnote
This can indicate trauma and may require further evaluation.
115
Q: What signs should the nurse monitor regarding breathing during a seizure?
* Apnea (absence of breathing, especially during the ictal phase of the seizure)
* Absent or abnormal breath sounds
* Airway occlusion (blocked airway)
* Impaired gag reflex
## Footnote
Ictal refers to a seizure or a sudden attack, indicating a pause in breathing.
116
What are absent or abnormal breath sounds indicative of?
Possible respiratory distress or obstruction
## Footnote
This requires immediate assessment and intervention.
117
What condition can lead to airway occlusion?
Impaired gag reflex
## Footnote
An absent gag reflex can lead to tongue obstructing airway, liquids or foreign objects can slide down throat, ability to clear secretions is reduced.
118
What should be noted if a patient has **teeth clenched?**
No oral airway!!!!
## Footnote
This can complicate airway management and may require alternative methods.
119
Q: What interventions are needed for an i**neffective breathing pattern during a seizure**?
* Suction the airway if needed to clear secretions.
* Provide Oxygen (O2) to ensure proper oxygenation.
## Footnote
This refers to the need for suctioning or supplemental oxygen in patients with compromised breathing patterns.
120
What safety precautions should be done for a patient at risk of **injury**?
* Pad rails
* Protect head
## Footnote
This involves using padding on bed rails and ensuring head protection to prevent injury.
121
What intervention can be provided for **ineffective coping**?
Offer verbal reassurance- helping them feel safe and supported during or after the seizure.
## Footnote
This approach helps to support the patient emotionally and reduce anxiety.
122
What is a recommended strategy for **ineffective therapeutic regimen management** (meds)?
* Provide education on the importance of c**onsistent medication use and seizure management**.
## Footnote
Educating patients on their treatment plans can improve adherence and outcomes.
123
What safety measure should be taken for individuals at risk for head injury?
Wearing a helmet
## Footnote
Helmets provide protection against head injuries in at-risk populations.
124
What general health habits should be considered?
Encourage healthy diet and regular exercise.
## Footnote
Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise contributes to overall health.
125
Q: How can triggers for seizures be avoided or minimized?
Educating the patient on avoiding or modifying activities that can lead to triggers.
## Footnote
Recognizing triggers helps in managing seizure frequency and severity.
126
What **lifestyle factors** should be **avoided** to prevent seizures?
* Excessive alcohol
* fatigue
* loss of sleep
## Footnote
These factors can significantly increase the risk of seizures.
127
What is the first step in managing a seizure?
Maintain patent airway
## Footnote
This involves ensuring that the airway is clear to allow for proper breathing.
128
What position should a patient be placed in during a seizure?
Turn to side
## Footnote
This position helps **prevent aspiration and allows for easier breathing.**
129
What should be done with the patient's head during a seizure?
Support head
## Footnote
Supporting the head can prevent injury during the seizure.
130
What action should be taken regarding clothing during a seizure?
Loosen constrictive clothing
## Footnote
This helps improve circulation and comfort while having a seizure.
131
What should be done to the patient when they are having a seizure and they are **standing or sitting**?
Ease to floor
## Footnote
This helps to prevent injury from falling.
132
True or False: Objects should be placed in the mouth during a seizure.
False
## Footnote
can cause injury to the patient and the caregiver.
133
What should be done to prevent injury during a seizure in hospital?
Raise padded bed rails
## Footnote
This minimizes the risk of injury from falling out of bed.
134
What should NOT be used on a patient during a seizure?
No restraints- could cause more harm.
## Footnote
Restraints can cause injury and are not recommended during a seizure.
135
What should be noted regarding seizure activity?
* Note the start and end time of the seizure.
* Track the duration of the seizure activity for medical documentation and treatment planning.
## Footnote
Recording the duration helps in assessing the severity and need for further medical intervention.
136
What may be required after a seizure?
Suctioning or oxygen
## Footnote
These may be necessary to clear the airway or assist with breathing.
137
What should be assessed **after** a seizure?
* vital signs and neurological status (understanding)
* Ask simple questions to gauge their level of understanding about the seizure and how they feel after the event.
## Footnote
This helps determine the patient's awareness of their condition and any potential need for education.
138
Why is adherence to medication important?
To prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.
139
What should you not do without consulting a physician?
Adjust the dose of medication.
140
What should you do before taking OTC medications?
Consult with a healthcare provider (HCP).
141
What can happen if OTC medications are taken without consultation?
Can increase seizure frequency & even cause status epilepticus.
142
What should patients do to ensure ongoing care?
Keep regular appointments.
143
Who should be taught about emergency management?
Family members.
144
What is the purpose of Emotional support?
To provide assistance and comfort to individuals in coping with challenges
## Footnote
Emotional support can help individuals manage stress and emotional difficulties.
145
What are Medic Alert bracelets used for?
To provide critical medical information in emergencies
## Footnote
Medic Alert bracelets are especially useful for individuals with medical conditions.
146
What is a support animal's role regarding seizures?
May detect oncoming seizure activity
## Footnote
Support animals are trained to recognize signs of impending seizures and can alert their owners.
147
Why is it important to encourage normal activity?
To promote integration and routine in home, work, and school environments
## Footnote
Normal activities help maintain a sense of normalcy and well-being.
148
Q: Why might a referral be necessary for someone with seizures?
* A referral may be needed for additional support, education, and resources related to seizure management, including emotional support, advocacy, and specialized care.
## Footnote
Referrals can connect individuals with additional resources and support networks.
