Post on 01-Dec-2014
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Better Understanding Seizures
Better Understanding Seizures
Epilepsy is….
• a disorder characterized by recurrent seizures• seizures are a brief temporary disturbance in the
electrical system of the brain • is not contagious or a mental illness• very well controlled with medications
• Absence (also known as petit mal)• Complex Partial • Tonic Clonic (also known as grand Mal)
Types of Seizures
Incidence Rate for Seizures
• 1:100 people in the general population• 1:50 people under the age of 18
(potentially 1 student in each standard size
bus) • 1:3 students with a developmental disability
(highly likely in special ed bus fleet)
Absence Seizures (petit mal)
• most common type of seizure in primary and elementary school students
• characterized by blank stare• unresponsive to outside stimulus• automatic behaviors(lip smacking, picking
at clothes)• lasts a matter of seconds
First Aid for Absence Seizures
• Protect from harm• Observe ( frequency, how long)• Document (when, how often)• Report ( school nurse/administrator)
Complex Partial Seizures
• student is not aware of their surroundings• mobility is maintained• student may resist any attempt at restraint• lasts 2-4 minutes
First Aid: Partial Seizures
• pull bus over and stop as soon as it is safely possible
• contact dispatch• guard from harm (sharp objects, stairs)• allow student to move (do not restrain)• Make sure student is dropped off with a
responsible adult
Tonic Clonic Seizures (grand mal)
• convulsive activity• grinding motion of teeth• shallow breathing• unaware of surroundings• fluids from mouth• typically lasts 2-4 minutes (can last much
longer
First Aid: Tonic Clonic Seizures
• pull over & stop bus as soon as safe• contact dispatch• protect from harm • keep airway clear(roll on side across bench)• do not force anything in mouth• time seizure• leave with responsible adult
Issues Requiring 911 Assistance
• first time seizures• cluster seizures (occurring back to back)• seizures that last more than 5 minutes• student is injured, pregnant or has diabetes• if distance to 911 is unknown (rural areas,
field or athletic trips)
Special Issues to Consider
• wheelchair vs mobile• use of diastat• keeping others students calm and safe• prepare Seizure Action Plan in IEP• coordinate closely with dispatch throughout
Resources
• Epilepsy Foundation of Georgia
(800) 527-7105 www.epilepsyga.org
• www.epilepsyclassroom.com
• www.epilepsy.com