Improving Seizure Management in Nursing Homes

Source: Neurology and therapy

Summary

This study looked at how nursing homes in the United States manage acute seizures in their residents. Researchers surveyed 91 nursing home directors to understand their practices and identify any gaps in knowledge about treating seizures. The focus was on how well these facilities are prepared to handle seizures, which are more common among nursing home residents than those living in the community.

The findings showed that just over half (52%) of nursing homes had a specific protocol for managing seizures. Nurses were usually the ones to follow these protocols. Most residents experiencing seizures received rescue medications, mainly older types of benzodiazepines, regardless of their seizure history. Additionally, the most commonly prescribed long-term medication for seizures was levetiracetam. However, staff training on seizure management was not frequent, and many directors felt that free educational resources about seizures would be very helpful.

This research is important because it highlights the need for better management of seizures in nursing homes, which can lead to serious health issues. Improving training and creating clear action plans for handling seizures could enhance the care provided to residents. However, the study had limitations, such as a small sample size and reliance on self-reported data, which may not fully represent the practices in all nursing homes.

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