Epilepsy - Awareness (inc rescue medications)
Level:
CPD
Duration:
3 hrs
Course code:
TD/2022/09035
Max group:
12
Learn about epilepsy, seizure management, and use of rescue meds in emergency
Course Summary
Epilepsy - Awareness (inc rescue medications)
This course provides a comprehensive understanding of epilepsy, focusing on recognising seizure types, understanding triggers, and implementing appropriate management strategies. Participants will learn how to provide support during and after seizures, including the safe administration of rescue medications in emergency situations. The course also addresses the importance of creating supportive environments for individuals with epilepsy, promoting safety, and reducing stigma. By the end, attendees will feel confident in managing seizures and supporting individuals living with epilepsy. Key Learning Objectives: Understand Epilepsy and Seizures: Gain knowledge about the causes and types of epilepsy. Recognise different types of seizures and their characteristics. Identify Triggers and Risk Factors: Understand common seizure triggers and how to minimise them. Learn about risk factors that may increase seizure frequency or severity. Provide Effective Seizure First Aid: Learn step-by-step seizure first aid techniques to ensure safety. Understand when and how to seek emergency medical assistance. Administer Rescue Medications Safely: Gain confidence in the correct use of rescue medications (e.g., buccal midazolam, rectal diazepam). Understand dosage, timing, and administration protocols. Support Post-Seizure Recovery: Learn how to provide physical and emotional support after a seizure. Recognise postictal states and how to manage them effectively. Promote Person-Centred Care: Communicate effectively with individuals and families about epilepsy management. Respect individual care plans and preferences. Understand Legal and Ethical Responsibilities: Learn about the legal considerations in administering rescue medications. Understand the importance of accurate record-keeping and reporting. Reduce Stigma and Promote Awareness: Gain insights into the impact of epilepsy on individuals and families. Learn strategies to educate others and promote understanding of epilepsy. Work Collaboratively with Professionals: Understand the roles of healthcare professionals in epilepsy management. Collaborate to create and implement individualised care plans. By completing this course, participants will have the skills and confidence to manage seizures, use rescue medications effectively, and provide supportive, person-centred care for individuals living with epilepsy.
Course Contents
Introduction to Epilepsy
Definition and overview of epilepsy
Prevalence and impact on individuals and families
Myths and misconceptions about epilepsy
Types of Seizures and Their Recognition Generalised seizures: tonic-clonic, absence, myoclonic, etc.
Focal seizures: simple partial, complex partial
How to identify and differentiate between seizure types
Causes and Triggers of Epilepsy
Common causes of epilepsy (e.g., brain injury, genetics, infections)
Identifying common seizure triggers (e.g., stress, lack of sleep, flashing lights)
Strategies to minimise triggers
Seizure First Aid and Emergency Response
Step-by-step seizure first aid techniques
Ensuring safety during a seizure (e.g., positioning, removing hazards)
Knowing when to call emergency services
Introduction to Rescue Medications
Types of rescue medications (e.g., buccal midazolam, rectal diazepam)
Indications for use of rescue medications
Understanding dosage, storage, and preparation
Administration of Rescue Medications
Step-by-step guidance on administering buccal midazolam
Safe administration of rectal diazepam
Recognising and responding to potential side effects
Post-Seizure Care and Recovery
Understanding the postictal state and how to support recovery
Providing reassurance and emotional support after a seizure
Monitoring for signs of complications
Legal and Ethical Considerations
Legal responsibilities when administering rescue medications
Consent, confidentiality, and duty of care
Importance of accurate record-keeping and documentation
Creating a Supportive Environment
Promoting safety and independence for individuals with epilepsy
Adapting environments to reduce risks (e.g., in schools, workplaces)
Supporting inclusion and reducing stigma
Epilepsy Care Planning and Collaboration
Understanding individualised epilepsy care plans
Working with healthcare professionals (e.g., neurologists, epilepsy nurses)
Involving families and carers in management strategies
Practical Scenarios and Role-Playing
Hands-on practice with administering rescue medications Role-playing to build confidence in managing seizures Group discussions to share experiences and best practices
Assessment
The instructor conducts a single written assessments at the end of the course. Upon successful completion, learners will receive a three-year Level 3 Award in Principles of Safeguarding and Protecting Children, Young People or Vulnerable Adults (Level 6 in Scotland). No external assessors are required for this qualification.
Duration
The course requires a minimum of 7 hours, distributed over the day. While it is ideal to complete the course in one day, we can adjust the schedule to suit your specific needs, as long as the course is completed within 3 weeks of starting and each training session lasts at least two hours.
Certification Validity
This qualification has no formal expiry, however regular CPD and updates are recommended.
Further Information - Course Numbers
A maximum of 12 students can be accommodated on this course and all candidates must be a minimum of 18 years of age to qualify.
Assessment method: Activities, test paper.
Pre-requisite: None
Suggested progression:
recommended refresher training and CPD;