Course Overview

With approximately 150,000 Australians living with the condition in 2022, Epilepsy is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurological conditions in the country. This Ausmed Course provides learners with a thorough understanding of epilepsy and in-depth knowledge of how to care for a patient living with this condition.

Topics

• Epilepsy facts and statistics
• Epilepsy types and classifications
• Diagnosis criteria and diagnostic tools
• Antiseizure medications
• Seizure management and first-aid

Need

Epilepsy is one of the most commonly diagnosed neurological conditions - it is estimated to affect approximately 150,000 Australians. It is a disabling condition as seizures associated with epilepsy have the potential to result in serious harm.

Therefore, having a thorough understanding of epilepsy and in-depth knowledge of how to care for a patient with epilepsy is essential in order to achieve positive patient outcomes.

Additionally, it is imperative that healthcare professionals are provided with practical skills for managing the condition in collaboration with the patient in order to prevent future seizures from occurring and improve their quality of life.

Purpose

The purpose of this Ausmed Course is to increase understanding about the condition of epilepsy and its aetiologies, and additionally provide information on treatment and management, including first-aid for a person experiencing a seizure.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand and describe epilepsy and its significance in the community.
• Identify the different classifications of seizures and epilepsies.
• Comprehend the key steps and tools used for seizure diagnosis.
• Apply current best-practice treatment and management pathways for patients experiencing seizures and those with epilepsy.

Target Audience

This Ausmed Course is intended for nurses, paramedics and other healthcare professionals involved in the care of patients with epilepsy looking to increase their knowledge of the management of epilepsy and seizures.

Disclosure

No conflict of interest exists for anyone in the position to control content for this activity. Wherever possible, generic or non-proprietary names of medications or products have been used.

Educator

Peter Jones View profile

Peter Jones ( RN MNSc(NP) with distinction) is a nurse practitioner (neurology) based in Queensland. He has worked as a clinical nurse consultant (epilepsy), a nurse unit manager, clinical facilitator and as a registered nurse in an Intensive Care Unit, and was awarded as health practitioner of the year by Epilepsy Queensland. Outside of healthcare, Peter has a strong passion for football and being outdoors near the water.