Emergency department after having a seizure
Select one of the following discussion questions below. Post a substantive initial response with references.
D.F. is a 37-year-old woman who presents to the emergency department after having a seizure.
Subjective Data
PMH: Seizures, unknown type
Headache
Housewife
Feels weak
No loss of consciousness
Objective Data
Vital signs: T 37 P 72 R 18 BP 114/64
Lungs: Clear all bases
O2 sat = 100%
CV = heart rate regular, positive peripheral pulses
PERRLA
Questions
What other questions should the nurse ask about the seizures?
What other assessments are necessary for this patient?
What are some of the causes of seizures?
Develop a problem list from objective and subjective data.
What should be included in the plan of care?
What other risk factors are associated with this presentation?
Sample Answer
Further Assessment for D.F.
Seizure History:
- When was the last seizure and how long did it last?
- What were the specific symptoms experienced during the seizure (aura, convulsions, loss of control)?
- Has D.F. ever had a seizure before? If yes, how often do they occur?
- Was there any trigger or precipitating factor (lack of sleep, stress, illness)?
- Does D.F. take any medications for seizures? If yes, what are they and has she been compliant?
- Does D.F. have a history of head trauma or meningitis?
- Does D.F. have any family history of seizures or neurological disorders?