Summary of Research: Overview of Acute Seizure Management in US Nursing Homes

This is a summary of the original article “Overview of acute seizure management in US nursing homes.” Nursing home residents are more likely than community-dwelling individuals to be diagnosed with epilepsy or seizures. These conditions often complicate care and are associated with an increased likelihood of illness and death. The objective of this survey was to investigate acute seizure management practices in nursing homes in the USA, identify gaps in knowledge, and guide future educational efforts, including acute seizure action plans. The survey was completed by 91 nursing home directors. Overall, 52% of nursing homes had a seizure protocol in place. These protocols were most often put into action by nurses. Most residents with seizures were given rescue medications, primarily older formulations of benzodiazepines, regardless of seizure history. Levetiracetam was the most prescribed antiseizure medication. Staff training/in-service education was infrequent, and 55% of respondents agreed that no-cost seizure education would be highly beneficial. This study highlights the need to improve the treatment of acute seizures in nursing homes, including the adoption of acute seizure action plans. (Figure presented.) (Figure presented.)