Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures. It is a prevalent condition, with an estimated 1 in 26 people developing the disorder, according to the Epilepsy Foundation. Epilepsy affects individuals of all genders, races, and ages, including children.
As schools begin their academic year nationwide, Dr. Anthony Fine, a pediatric neurologist and epileptologist at Mayo Clinic, emphasizes the importance of proactive measures taken by parents to ensure their children have a seizure action plan.
Dr. Fine emphasizes the significance of having a plan in place, as seizures can cause panic, leaving individuals unsure of how to respond. By having a seizure action plan, families feel more prepared to manage the situation when a child experiences a seizure.
A seizure action plan is a document that outlines the child’s seizure types, contact information for their family and doctors, and instructions for what to do during a seizure. Since seizures can present differently from person to person, the plan is tailored specifically to the child’s needs and symptoms.
It is crucial for school staff to be equipped with seizure action plans and trained to respond to seizures effectively, even if a school nurse is not present. Dr. Fine emphasizes the importance of having a responsible adult who is comfortable administering rescue medication and knows how to act during a seizure.
If you need assistance creating a seizure action plan, there are resources available online, such as seizure action plan forms from websites like the Epilepsy Foundation. Alternatively, your healthcare team can provide guidance and support in creating a customized plan.
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