Seizure Disorder

Seizure is defined as a sudden, transient alteration in brain function due to excessive levels of electrical activity in the brain. It can be classified as partial or generalized, or unclassified, that is depended on the area of the brain involved.

Nursing Assessment of Seizure in Child

• Obtain information from the parent about the onset time, precipitating events, and behavior before and after the seizure.
• Assess the child's history in relation to seizures.

Seizure Precautions:

• Raise the side rails when the child is sleeping or resting
• Place a waterproof mattress or pad on the bed or crib
• Pad the side rails and other hard object
• Instruct child to wear medical identification
• Instruct the child about precaution during potentially hazardous activities
• Instruct the child not to swim without a companion
• Instruct the child to wear a helmet and padding during bicycle riding, skateboarding, and inline skating
• Alert caregivers to the need for any special precautions

Emergency Treatment for Seizures:

1. Ensure airway patency
2. Identify time of seizure episode
3. If the child is in sitting or standing position, ease the child down to the floor, placing the child in a side-lying position
4. Place a pillow or folded blanket under the child's head, or place your own hands under the child's head, or place the child's head in your own lap
5. Loose the child's clothes
6. Remove eye glasses if present
7. Clear area from any hazard or hard objects
8. Allow seizure to proceed and end without interference
9. Turn child to one side (as a unit) if vomiting
10. Do not restrain the child, place anything in the child's mouth or give any food or liquid to the child
11. Remain with the child until the child fully recovers
12. Prepare to administration some medication as prescribed
13. Observe for incontinence
14. Document the occurrence