Seizures

Question 1

Uncontrolled electrical discharge of neurons in the brain that disrupts normal function; electrical storm

Answer 1

seizure

Question 2

Spontaneous recurring seizures caused by an underlying chronic condition

Answer 2

epilepsy

Question 3

Causes of epilepsy

Answer 3

metabolic disorders: acidosis, electrolyte imbalance, hypoglycemia, hypoxia, alcohol or barbiturate withdrawal

extra cranial disorders: heart, lung, kidney, liver problems, lupus, HTN

Question 4

Common causes of seizures

Answer 4

75% of all cases are idiopathic, genetics, trauma, tumors, stroke

Question 5

Focal seizures

Answer 5

involves a group of abnormal neurons that randomly fire

area can be controlled or removed

Question 6

Generalized seizures

Answer 6

involve the whole brain

no warning or aura, will have loss of consciousness

Question 7

Phases of a seizure

Answer 7

prodromal: symptoms that lead to a seizure; can have an aura that indicates an impending seizure
ictal: active seizure
postictal: period of recovery; pt will have fatigue, no memory of the seizure, and may sleep for a prolonged period of time

Question 8

Tonic-clonic seizures (grand mal)

Answer 8

Loss of consciousness, falling, stiffness & jerking, cyanosis, tongue/cheek biting

Question 9

Absence seizures

Answer 9

common in children, can be mistaken for daydreaming, person will have a staring spell

Question 10

Status epilepticus

Answer 10

seizure lasting for more than 5 minutes or two seizures within 5 minutes without return of consciousness; very serious

treat with Ativan (short term) & Keppra (long term)

Question 11

Assessment of patients with seizures

Answer 11

history and description of the event are very important

need to determine precipitating factors, onset, length, and postictal symptoms

Question 12

Nursing management of seizures

Answer 12

during: maintain airway, support head/turn to the side, loosen clothes, clear surroundings
postictal: O2, suctioning, determine LOC, seizure precautions