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This chapter begins with a discussion of the taxonomy of seizure disorders and the clinical features of epilepsy that pose methodological challenges in clinical and epidemiologic studies. Descriptive studies of incidence and prevalence are described for the following seizure types: partial, generalized tonic-clonic, myoclonic, and absence seizures. Risk factors for epilepsy are discussed in the context of case-control and cohort designs, and evidence is summarized regarding the role of non-genetic risk factors (traumatic brain injury, infections, cerebrovascular disease, brain tumors, degenerative CNS diseases, and developmental deficits). The chapter discusses factors associated with prognosis and mortality of epilepsy, as well as common causes of death in epilepsy patients. The final section addresses evidence for familial aggregation and genetic causes of seizures.

This chapter aims to give you knowledge and understanding of the skills required to provide safe and effective care to a child presenting with a neurological disorder. The chapter will focus mainly on the more frequently encountered neurological conditions and procedures both in a hospital and community setting. In addition the importance of family centred care (Chapter Two) and a culturally sensitive approach to care will be discussed. ● The rationale for undertaking a neurological assessment and how to carry out a neurological assessment on a child. ● The important elements of care of the child with a head injury based on the best practice. ● Key responsibilities of the nurse before, during, and after a lumbar puncture procedure. ● Various approaches to neurological imaging and the main principles involved in preparing a child for these. ● The main causes of seizures in childhood. ● The main principles involved in caring for a child with a convulsive seizure. ● The nurse’s role in caring for an unconscious child. Good knowledge of national and local polices and guidelines in relation to this area are recommended to compliment learning in this chapter. Furthermore it is essential for students to have a good understanding of the anatomy and physiology of the neurological system when caring for a child with a neurological disorder. A thorough understanding and knowledge of the key structures and functions of the brain will assist in understanding neurological conditions and will help in appreciating the significance and relevance of monitoring neurological status (this section will concentrate mainly on the structure and function of the brain). Nevertheless, it is advisable to revise in more depth the nervous system in your core anatomy and physiology book. Knowledge from other chapters is also advisable in order to understand the interdependence between body systems and the brain.

A 74-year-old man suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest on a surgical ward four days after an elective sigmoid colectomy (with primary anastomosis) for cancer. His past medical history included hypertension and hypercholesterolaemia for which he took lisinopril, atenolol, and atorvastatin.

He had been seen by the surgical foundation year 1 doctor (in the UK) eight hours prior to his cardiorespiratory arrest after an episode of nausea and vomiting. On examination at that time his temperature was 38.0°C, pulse 105 beats per minute, blood pressure 95/40 mmHg, and respiratory rate 28 breaths per minute, with peripheral oxygen saturation of 94% on air. The doctor had noted abdominal tenderness, prescribed intravenous fluids, paracetamol and ondansetron, and performed peripheral blood cultures.