Employers may wish to assess competence in the workplace setting following this course, as it not possible to assess competence in practice during the course.

It is recommended that a refresher course be attended within 2 years of completion of the full training (JEC 2004), please contact us for details of refresher courses.

Example Programme (6 hours)

Epilepsy Awareness covering:-

• What is epilepsy
• Causes of epilepsy
• Diagnosis
• Seizure types (classification) - video
• Treatment - antiepileptic medication and side effects
• First aid for seizures
• Psychosocial issues, including cultural issues
  

Health and Safety covering:-

• Risk assessment
• Care plans
• Storage and disposal
• Duty of care and legal responsibilities
• Privacy and dignity
  

The Administration of Rectal Diazepam covering:-

• What diazepam is
• Use in epilepsy Indications for use
• Appropriate doses
• Practical demonstration using anatomical model & video
• Possible difficulties or barriers to administration
• Side effects
• Effects of overdose and action to take
• Action to take if prescribed dose ineffective

At the end of the course candidates will:-

• Have an understanding of epilepsy, its causes and treatment
• Have understanding the effects of epilepsy effects on individuals and families
• Have the knowledge to plan care, assess risk and develop strategies to ensure a safe environment for people with epilepsy.
• Be able to manage seizures appropriate to type (first aid)
• Be able to recognise the emergency situation and act appropriately
• Understand the importance of recording seizures
• Will have an understanding of the theory and practice of administering rectal diazepam or buccal midazolam in accordance with the JEC (2004& 2005) guidelines
• Will have had the opportunity to carry out a simulated procedure under guidance from an experienced and qualified trainer
• Be able to follow and act according to the individual care plan and guidelines to administer emergency medication safely and appropriately.