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HLTEN505A – Contribute to the complex nursing care of clients. Epilepsy. Definition It is condition in which a person has spontaneous seizures caused by an underlying condition
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HLTEN505A – Contribute to the complex nursing care of clients
Epilepsy • Definition • It is condition in which a person has spontaneous seizures caused by an underlying condition • A seizure is a paroxysmal, uncontrolled electrical discharge of neurons in the brain that interrupts normal function.
Common types: • partial seizures, e.g. simple, complex • generalised seizure • - absence • - myoclonic • - tonic-clonic • - atonic
Causative factors: • trauma, brain injury • congenital defects involving CNS • space occupying lesions • metabolic • CNS infection • post surgery • genetics
Presenting problems: • outline presentation for different types of seizures • abnormal movements/postures • alteration in level of consciousness • incontinence • post ictal sleepiness • status epilepticus
Specific nursing management: • Specific nursing management: • briefly review relevant diagnostic assessments • protect person from injury • extent of precautions depends on type, • severity and frequency of seizures • observe characteristics of seizure • report and record • implement measures to maintain airway • provide re-orientation during post ictal phase • monitor effects of medication
emergency care for status epilepticus • - monitor effect of anticonvulsant/muscle • relaxant medication • - oxygen therapy as indicated • - rehydration • refer to Epilepsy Association support groups • educate regarding the need for • - proper sleeping patterns • - normal physical activity • - avoidance excessive stress • - compliance to treatment
Febrile convulsions • Definition: • usually occur between the ages of 6 months to 4 years • Causative factors: • viral, bacterial infections, e.g. tonsillitis, pharyngitis, otitis media • Presenting problems: • fever • tonic/clonic seizure
Specific nursing management • Briefly review relevant diagnostic assessments • implement measures to maintain infant’s/child’s airway • stay with infant/ child during convulsion • protect from further trauma • observe characteristics of seizure • report and record • cool child’s body temperature • reassure parents