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N4: Test 2 > Seizures > Flashcards

Seizures Flashcards

1
Q

What is a seizure?

A

A single, self-limiting occurrence of ‘jerky’ movements.

Seizures can vary in duration and intensity.

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2
Q

What defines epilepsy?

A

Two or more unprovoked and continuous/contiguous seizures.

Epilepsy often requires long-term management.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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6
Q

What type of seizure occurs and engages bilaterally?

A

Generalized seizure

Generalized seizures involve both hemispheres of the brain.

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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.

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8
Q

Fill in the blank: Seizures that are related to an acute, reversible condition 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.

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9
Q

Specific causes of “Acquired” Seizures

A
  • Cerebrovascular disease
  • Hypoxia – poor tissue O2, Hypoxemia – low SaO2
  • Eclampsia
  • 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
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10
Q

What condition can cause seizures during pregnancy?

A

Eclampsia

Eclampsia is a severe complication of pregnancy characterized by seizures.

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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.

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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.

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13
Q

Q: What is the relationship between 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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
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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.

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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.

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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).

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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.

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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.

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25
Q

True or False: Individuals remember absence seizures after they occur.

A

False

There is typically no memory of the event associated with absence seizures.

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26
Q

Seizures occur in distinct phases.
Name these 4 phases?

A
  1. Prodromal phase
  2. Aural phase “Pre-ictal”
  3. Ictal phase
  4. Postictal phase
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27
Q

What is the prodromal phase of seizures?

A

Signs or activity that precede a seizure

The prodromal phase may include changes in mood, behavior, or physical sensations.

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28
Q

What occurs during the aural phase of a seizure?

A

Sensory warning in some patients

This phase is also referred to as the ‘pre-ictal’ phase and may involve visual or auditory sensations.

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29
Q

What is the ictal phase?

A

Full seizure activity

This phase is characterized by the actual seizure, which can vary in duration and severity.

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30
Q

What is the postictal phase?

A

Recovery period after seizure

This phase can involve confusion, fatigue, and other neurological symptoms as the brain recovers.

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31
Q

Q: What is an aura in relation to seizures?

A

A: An aura is a sensory warning that occurs BEFORE a seizure, signaling abnormal brain activity.

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32
Q

What are 5 common symptoms of a seizure aura?

A
  • 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

A seizure aura is a warning sign that some people experience before a seizure occurs, often involving sensory or emotional changes.

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33
Q

True or False: Headache is a symptom of a seizure aura.

A

True

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34
Q

What does aphasia refer to in the context of seizure auras?

A

Aphasia refers to difficulty with language or communication.

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35
Q

Fill in the blank: A seizure aura may cause _______ of hands, lips, or tongue.

A

Numbness

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36
Q

How long do Aura’s last?

A

seconds to 60 minutes
(BEFORE a seizure)

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37
Q

What is the primary aim of medication therapy for seizures?

A

Aimed at prevention; cure not possible

Medication therapy focuses on preventing further seizures rather than curing the underlying condition.

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38
Q

What is the mechanism by which seizure medications work?

A

Stabilize nerve cell membranes and prevent spread of epileptic discharge that causes sizure symptoms.

This mechanism helps to control seizures by reducing excessive electrical activity in the brain.

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39
Q

What percentage of patients achieve seizure control with medication?

A

70%

This statistic indicates the effectiveness of medication in managing seizures for a majority of patients.

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40
Q

What is the therapeutic range for Phenobarbital?

A

15-40 mcg/ml

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41
Q

How long can it take for Phenobarbital to reach peak levels in the brain?

A

Up to 15 minutes

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42
Q

What is the maximum rate of administration for Phenobarbital?

A

60 mg/min

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43
Q

True or False: Too rapid administration of Phenobarbital can cause serious respiratory depression.

A

True

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44
Q

What is a risk of withdrawing (stoping abruptly) Phenobarbital too quickly?

A

Can trigger status epilepticus

is a medical emergency where a seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or multiple seizures occur without the person regaining consciousness in between.

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45
Q

What should be monitored closely when administering Phenobarbital?

A
  • Patient
  • Ensure patent airway
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46
Q

Why should extravasation of the vein be avoided with Phenobarbital?

A

Its very alkaline, making it harsh on tissues causing inflammation, necrosis (tissue death), and severe pain at the injection site.

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47
Q

How to prevent extravasation?

A
  • 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.
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48
Q

What is the only solution compatible with Phenobarbital?

A

0.9% NS

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49
Q

What are the 3 primary drugs used to treat generalized tonic-clonic and partial seizures?

A
  • Phenytoin (Dilantin)
  • Carbamazepine (Tegretol),
  • Divalproex (Depakote).
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50
Q

What is a characteristic of OLDER seizure medications?

A

Require constant monitoring

Older medications can have more side effects and interactions.

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51
Q

Q: What are 3 key considerations for phenytoin (Dilantin)?

A
  • Many side effects
  • take with meals
  • Drug interactions with birth control pills (BCP) and alcohol (ETOH).
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52
Q

What are some side effects of phenytoin (Dilantin)?

A
  • Fatigue is normal
  • sedation indicates toxicity (check levels).
  • many drug interactions

Patients are advised to take it with meals.

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53
Q

What is an important dietary consideration for patients taking carbamazepine (Tegretol)?

A

Avoid grapefruit

Grapefruit can increase medication levels in the body.

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54
Q

What are 3 common side effects of carbamazepine (Tegretol)?

A

Constipation, dry mouth, drowsiness

These side effects can affect patient compliance.

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55
Q

What are the potential side effects of divalproex (Depakote)?

A
  • Agitation
  • irritability
  • depression
  • suicidal thoughts

Monitoring for these effects is crucial for patient safety.

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56
Q

What organ be monitored in patients taking divalproex (Depakote)?

A

Hepatic toxicity

Liver function tests should be performed periodically.

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57
Q

True or False: Fatigue is a normal side effect of phenytoin (Dilantin).

A

True

While fatigue is expected, sedation may indicate toxicity.

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58
Q

What are the 3 effective medications for absence, akinetic, and myoclonic seizures?

A
  • Ethosuximide (Zarontin)
  • Divalproex (Depakote)
  • Clonazepam (Klonopin).
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59
Q

What are the side effects of Divalproex (Depakote)?

A
  • N/V
  • somnolence
  • weight gain
  • hepatic toxicity
  • GI upset/ulcers if pills are crushed.

Divalproex is used for various seizure types.

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60
Q

Side effects of Ethosuximide

A
  • N/V
  • anorexia
  • agitation
  • aggression
61
Q

True or False: Divalproex can lead to weight loss as a side effect.

A

False

Divalproex is associated with weight gain.

62
Q

List 5 side effects of Clonazepam (Klonopin).

A
  • CNS depression
  • Drowsiness
  • Ataxia
  • Nystagmus
  • Glassy-eyed appearance
63
Q

Q: Why should anti-seizure drugs not be discontinued abruptly?

A

A: Abrupt discontinuation can precipitate seizures.

It is important for patients to **taper off **these medications under medical supervision.

64
Q

List 4 toxic side effects of anti-seizure drugs.

A
  • Diplopia (double vission)
  • Drowsiness
  • Ataxia
  • Mental slowing

These side effects may vary in severity among different patients.

65
Q

What am I?

sudden, uncontrolled bursts of electrical activity happen in the brain, causing unprovoked seizures
(uncontrolled movements, staring spells, or confusion).

A

Epilepsy

66
Q

Q: When are seizures not considered epilepsy?

A
  • 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

This highlights the importance of identifying the cause of seizures.

67
Q

Is Epilepsy associated with retardation?

A

No

68
Q

Q: How does pregnancy affect seizure frequency in women with epilepsy?

A

A: “Eclamptic” seizure episodes increase by 25% in women with epilepsy.

This increase indicates a heightened risk for women with epilepsy who are pregnant.

69
Q

Q: Why are seizures dangerous during pregnancy?

A

A: Seizures can cause hypoxia, which puts both the mother and fetus at risk.

Hypoxia refers to a deficiency in the amount of oxygen reaching the tissues.

70
Q

Q: What is a major concern with anticonvulsant drugs during pregnancy?

A

Teratogenic properties = cause birth defects.

Teratogenic drugs can cause developmental malformations in a fetus.

71
Q

What should women with epilepsy do before planing pregnancy?

A

Discuss risks & med managment with their healthcare provider

Consulting with a healthcare provider is crucial for managing health during pregnancy.

72
Q

What is the primary goal when caring for a patient experiencing an eclamptic seizure?

A

Prevent injury / head trauma

This includes ensuring the patient’s safety during seizures.

73
Q

What vital signs should be monitored during an eclamptic seizure?

A
  • Respirations & airway
  • O2 supplement

Continuous monitoring is critical to ensure adequate oxygenation.

74
Q

What should be auscultated to assess fetal well-being during an eclampsia seizure?

A

Fetal heart rate to check for fetal distress

Monitoring fetal heart rate is essential to detect any signs of fetal distress.

75
Q

What medication is administered for eclamptic seizures and how does it work?

A

Magnesium sulfate – slows electrical conduction and relaxes muscles.

Magnesium sulfate is used to prevent seizures and manage muscle tension.

76
Q

What is the most dangerous form of epilepsy complication?

(not a type of epilepsy- rather a medical emergency)

A

Tonic-clonic status epilepticus

It can lead to a potentially fatal cascade effect.

77
Q

Q: Why is tonic-clonic status epilepticus so dangerous?

A

A: The constant seizure activity causes muscles to lock up, preventing gas exchange and respiration, leading to oxygen deprivation and organ failure.

78
Q

List some complications caused by tonic-clonic status epilepticus.

A
  • Ventilatory insufficiency
  • Hypoxemia
  • Cardiac arrhythmias
  • Hyperthermia
  • Systemic acidosis

These complications can occur due to constant seizure activity.

79
Q

True or False: Trauma during a seizure can lead to severe injury and death.

A

True

Trauma during a seizure can lead to falls, head injuries, fractures, or aspiration, which may be life-threatening

80
Q

Fill in the blank: Tonic-clonic Status Epilepticus causes everything to _______.

A

lock up

This refers to constant seizure activity.

81
Q

How long does a seizure have to last to be considered Status Epilepticus?

A
  • A seizure lasting 5 minutes or more
  • or having multiple seizures within a 5-minute period without returning to baseline.
82
Q

A type of Status Epilepticus

A

Generalized Convulsive Status Epilepticus (GCSE)

A type of seizure where the brain remains in an abnormal electrical state for a prolonged period, but without visible convulsions (jerking movements).

83
Q

What defines Generalized Convulsive Status Epilepticus?

A
  • 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
Q

What is status epilepticus?

A

A: Status Epilepticus is a state of constant seizure activity where multiple seizures occur without recovery between them.

It involves no conscious episodes between seizure activity.

85
Q

Q: What happens to the patient during Status Epilepticus?

A
  • 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.

This type of activity can inhibit respiratory muscle function.

86
Q

What is the immediate treatment concern for status epilepticus?

A

Cerebral anoxia

This condition occurs due to a lack of oxygen in the brain.

87
Q

Is status epilepticus self-limiting?

A

No- its a LIFE THREATENING EMERGENCY

It is considered a life-threatening emergency.

88
Q

Is status epilepticus predictable?

A

No- often occurs without a warning aura
(a sensation or feeling that typically occurs before a seizure).

Most episodes are not associated with an aura.

89
Q

Q: What happens when the brain uses more energy than it can supply during Status Epilepticus?

A

A: The neurons become exhausted and may cease to function, leading to permanent brain damage if not treated promptly.

This can lead to severe neurological consequences.

90
Q

Q: Why is Status Epilepticus considered a neurologic emergency?

A

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

This indicates an urgent medical condition requiring immediate intervention.

91
Q

What is the primary medication used to treat status epilepticus?

A

IV lorazepam (Ativan®)
(CNS depressant)

Lorazepam is a benzodiazepine commonly used for its rapid action in treating status epilepticus.

92
Q

What should be monitored closely when administering Lorazepam?

A

Respirations- CLOSELY

CNS depressants can affect respiratory function, making monitoring critical.

93
Q

How should IV lorazepam be ADMINISTERED?

A

Slowly

Infusing lorazepam too quickly can cause pain at the IV site.

94
Q

Can IV lorazepam be administered continuously?

A

Yes, to help control seizures in refractory status epilepticus (seizures that do not respond to initial treatments).

Continuous administration may be necessary for patients who do not respond to initial treatment.

95
Q
A
96
Q

Q: How should lorazepam be administered for status epilepticus?

A
  • Rapid action to control seizures
  • dosage should be titrated up (increased) as needed.

Lorazepam acts quickly to control seizures in status epilepticus.

97
Q

After the patient is seizure-free for 24 hours, how should lorazepam be managed?

A

Wean slowly to avoid withdrawal/complications

Gradual weaning is important to prevent withdrawal symptoms and ensure patient safety.

98
Q

What is the another rx treatment for status epilepticus?

A

IV diazepam (Valium®)
(CNS depressant)

Diazepam is a benzodiazepine used for its CNS depressant effects.

99
Q

What should be monitored closely when administering IV diazepam?

A

Respirations

Due to its CNS depressant properties, respiratory depression is a risk.

100
Q

Should IV diazepam be diluted with other solutions or drugs?

A

No

Diluting diazepam can lead to precipitation, which is dangerous.

101
Q

How should IV diazepam be administered?

A

Directly into vein or y-port closest to site

Proper administration technique is crucial for effectiveness.

102
Q

What is the rate of administration for IV diazepam in adults?

A

given slowly at rate of 5 mg/min for adults

This rate ensures rapid action while minimizing risks.

103
Q

What is the administration rate for pediatric patients receiving IV diazepam?

A

0.25 mg/kg over 3 minutes

Pediatric dosing must consider weight for safety.

104
Q

True or False: IV diazepam has a rapid action.

A

True

Diazepam is known for its quick onset of action in emergency situations.

105
Q

Lorazepam & diazepam must be followed with _______ drugs.

A

long-acting drugs

Lorazepam and Diazepam are short-acting benzodiazepines that rapidly control seizures, but their effects are not long-lasting.

106
Q

Name a long-acting drug that is given
in Status epilepticus

A

phenytoin (Dilantin ®)

107
Q

What is the loading dose of phenytoin (Dilantin ®)?

A

10-20 mg/kg - followed by a maintenance dose

This is the initial dose given to achieve therapeutic levels quickly.

108
Q

Phenytoin:
Seizure control generally occurs within _______ minutes.

A

15-20 minutes

This timeframe indicates how quickly treatment can be effective.

109
Q

Phenytoin:
What is the lethal dose for adults?

A

2-5 gm

This reflects the dangerous threshold for overdose in adults.

110
Q

Phenytoin is very alkaline. True or False?

A

True

This characteristic affects how it should be administered.

111
Q

DO NOT MIX phenytoin with other _______ medications.

A

IV medications

Mixing can cause adverse reactions or reduce efficacy.

112
Q

Phenytoin:
Always flush the line with _______ before & after administration.

A

NS

NS refers to Normal Saline, which is used to clear the line.

113
Q

What is the administration rate for phenytoin?

A

25-50 mg / min

This rate is crucial for safe administration of the drug.

114
Q

What are additional precipitating factors that can trigger seizures?

A

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

These factors can significantly increase the risk of seizure activity in individuals.

115
Q

Q: What should be assessed during a seizure, specifically regarding physical injury?

A
  • Bitten tongue
  • Soft-tissue damage
  • Cyanosis (bluish skin due to low oxygen), especially if it lasts less than 60 seconds
  • Abnormal respiratory rate

This can indicate trauma and may require further evaluation.

116
Q

Q: What signs should the nurse monitor regarding breathing during a seizure?

A
  • Apnea (absence of breathing, especially during the ictal phase of the seizure)
  • Absent or abnormal breath sounds
  • Airway occlusion (blocked airway)
  • Impaired gag reflex

Ictal refers to a seizure or a sudden attack, indicating a pause in breathing.

117
Q

What are absent or abnormal breath sounds indicative of?

A

Possible respiratory distress or obstruction

This requires immediate assessment and intervention.

118
Q

What condition can lead to airway occlusion?

A

Impaired gag reflex

A gag reflex is crucial for protecting the airway.

119
Q

What should be noted if a patient has teeth clenched?

A

No oral airway!!!!

This can complicate airway management and may require alternative methods.

120
Q

Q: What interventions are needed for an ineffective breathing pattern during a seizure?

A
  • Suction the airway if needed to clear secretions.
  • Provide Oxygen (O2) to ensure proper oxygenation.

This refers to the need for suctioning or supplemental oxygen in patients with compromised breathing patterns.

121
Q

What precaution should be taken for a patient at risk for injury?

A
  • Pad rails
  • Protect head

This involves using padding on bed rails and ensuring head protection to prevent injury.

122
Q

What intervention can be provided for ineffective coping?

A

Offer verbal reassurance- helping them feel safe and supported during or after the seizure.

This approach helps to support the patient emotionally and reduce anxiety.

123
Q

What is a recommended strategy for ineffective therapeutic regimen management (meds)?

A
  • Provide education on the importance of consistent medication use and seizure management.

Educating patients on their treatment plans can improve adherence and outcomes.

124
Q

What safety measure should be taken for individuals at risk for head injury?

A

Wearing a helmet

Helmets provide protection against head injuries in at-risk populations.

125
Q

What general health habits should be considered?

A

Encourage healthy diet and regular exercise.

Maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise contributes to overall health.

126
Q

Q: How can triggers for seizures be avoided or minimized?

A

Educating the patient on avoiding or modifying activities that can lead to triggers.

Recognizing triggers helps in managing seizure frequency and severity.

127
Q

What lifestyle factors should be avoided to prevent seizures?

A
  • Excessive alcohol
  • fatigue
  • loss of sleep

These factors can significantly increase the risk of seizures.

128
Q

What is the first step in managing a seizure?

A

Maintain patent airway

This involves ensuring that the airway is clear to allow for proper breathing.

129
Q

What position should a patient be placed in during a seizure?

A

Turn to side

This position helps prevent aspiration and allows for easier breathing.

130
Q

What should be done with the patient’s head during a seizure?

A

Support head

Supporting the head can prevent injury during the seizure.

131
Q

What action should be taken regarding clothing during a seizure?

A

Loosen constrictive clothing

This helps improve circulation and comfort while having a seizure.

132
Q

What should be done to the patient when they are having a seizure and they are standing or sitting?

A

Ease to floor

This helps to prevent injury from falling.

133
Q

True or False: Objects should be placed in the mouth during a seizure.

A

False

can cause injury to the patient and the caregiver.

134
Q

What should be done to prevent injury during a seizure?

A

Raise padded bed rails

This minimizes the risk of injury from falling out of bed.

135
Q

What should NOT be used on a patient during a seizure?

A

No restraints- could cause more harm.

Restraints can cause injury and are not recommended during a seizure.

136
Q

What should be noted regarding seizure activity?

A
  • Note the start and end time of the seizure.
  • Track the duration of the seizure activity for medical documentation and treatment planning.

Recording the duration helps in assessing the severity and need for further medical intervention.

137
Q

What may be required after a seizure?

A

Suctioning or oxygen

These may be necessary to clear the airway or assist with breathing.

138
Q

What should be assessed after a seizure?

A
  • 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.

This helps determine the patient’s awareness of their condition and any potential need for education.

139
Q

Why is adherence to medication important?

A

To prevent complications and ensure effective treatment.

140
Q

What should you not do without consulting a physician?

A

Adjust the dose of medication.

141
Q

What should you do before taking OTC medications?

A

Consult with a healthcare provider (HCP).

142
Q

What can happen if OTC medications are taken without consultation?

A

Can increase seizure frequency & even cause status epilepticus.

143
Q

What should patients do to ensure ongoing care?

A

Keep regular appointments.

144
Q

Who should be taught about emergency management?

A

Family members.

145
Q

What is the purpose of Emotional support?

A

To provide assistance and comfort to individuals in coping with challenges

Emotional support can help individuals manage stress and emotional difficulties.

146
Q

What are Medic Alert bracelets used for?

A

To provide critical medical information in emergencies

Medic Alert bracelets are especially useful for individuals with medical conditions.

147
Q

What is a support animal’s role regarding seizures?

A

May detect oncoming seizure activity

Support animals are trained to recognize signs of impending seizures and can alert their owners.

148
Q

Why is it important to encourage normal activity?

A

To promote integration and routine in home, work, and school environments

Normal activities help maintain a sense of normalcy and well-being.

149
Q

Q: Why might a referral be necessary for someone with seizures?

A
  • A referral may be needed for additional support, education, and resources related to seizure management, including emotional support, advocacy, and specialized care.

Referrals can connect individuals with additional resources and support networks.

N4: Test 2 (4 decks)

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