Seizures

1. Since this child had a fever, the child probably experienced a febrile seizure. A febrile seizure occurs when a child rapidly develops a high fever. These types of seizure are more likely to occur in children between the ages of 3 months to 5 years of age.

The nurse may want to assess what is causing the child's fever. If the healthcare providers can figure out if the child has an infection going on, they can explain to the mother what she needs to do to get her child well, and that her child is going to be ok. These types of seizures rarely, if ever, produce long-term side affects. The nurse may want to tell the mother how to control a fever in a child. One such way would be to alternate between Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen. A cool compress on the child's head may also help.

2. The nurse needs to take the child's B/P and respiration rate prior to administering the medication. Since this drug is a CNS depressant, it should not be used if a child is experiencing breathing difficulties. The nurse also should let the family know what the side effects of the drug are. Some side effects would include hyperactivity/nervousness ( in children), dizziness, hypotension, and somnolence. Sleepiness may dissipate as therapy continues. This drug may also be habit forming. It may take 2-3 weeks for the drug to reach its full therapeutic effect. The patient should not abruptly discontinue the medication. This may increase seizure activity and/or withdrawal symptoms.