Epilepsy Seizure Action Plan
Epilepsy Awareness: Preparing Your Child with Epilepsy for School. Get ready!
Did you know that there are more than 50,000 children with epilepsy in the UK? *
So, you’re not alone!
As the new school year approaches, families of children with epilepsy need to take steps to ensure their safety and well-being. One of the most crucial steps is creating and updating a Seizure Action Plan (SAP). This plan is designed to guide caregivers, teachers, and school staff on how to respond in case of a seizure, providing clear instructions during potentially stressful situations.
A Seizure Action Plan is more than just a document—it’s a lifeline. It helps those around your child understand how to support them during a seizure and what actions to take in an emergency. This plan is particularly essential when your child is at school, away from immediate family, and in the care of teachers and other staff members who may not be familiar with epilepsy.
When developing an SAP with your neurologist, here are the key components to include:
Personal Details: The name, age, and diagnosis of the person with epilepsy.
Emergency Contacts: Important contact information for parents, guardians, and the child’s neurologist.
Medical Information: A summary of the child’s seizure patterns, current medications and dosages, any drug allergies, and known seizure triggers.
Seizure Description: A brief description of what the child’s seizures typically look like, so others can recognise when a seizure is happening.
Seizure Management: Clear instructions on how to help during a seizure, including when it’s necessary to seek additional medical help. This may include what to do if a seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes or if there are multiple seizures without recovery in between.
Rescue Medication: If applicable, detailed information on any rescue medications, including when and how they should be administered, and what side effects to watch for.
Once the SAP is complete, ensure that it’s easily accessible to everyone who interacts with your child regularly. This includes teachers, school nurses, bus drivers, and even your child’s classmates if appropriate. Keeping a copy with your child at all times is also advisable, especially if they are nonverbal or have developmental delays.
Each school may have its requirements for managing students with medical conditions like epilepsy. It’s a good idea to check with your child’s school to see if they need the SAP in a specific format or if they require any additional forms. The Epilepsy Action organisation is working for Epilepsy Safe Schools and provides training for school staff and information for kids, ensuring that every child with epilepsy has access to the support they need at school.
As you prepare your child for the upcoming school year, taking the time to create or update a Seizure Action Plan can provide peace of mind and ensure that your child is safe and supported while they learn and grow. By working closely with your neurologist and communicating effectively with your child’s school, you can help create a safe and understanding environment for your child.
Let’s make this school year a successful and safe one for every child living with epilepsy.
*Source: https://www.epilepsy.org.uk/
