Title: Epilepsy
Course: DEH 2821 Medically-Compromised Patient > Section: Module 5 - Epilepsy

Introduction

Seizures represent a disorder of brain or cerebral function, which causes altered consciousness, convulsions and potentially, loss of motor control. Any person can experience a seizure in a stressful situation, and about half of all seizures are considered idiopathic. Epilepsy is a condition commonly associated with seizure disorder.

Epilepsy is diagnosed in approximately 200,000 Americans each year. Ten percent of the American population will experience a seizure in their lifetime. (Epilepsyfoundation.org). Epilepsy and the effects of seizures impact patient populations in unique ways, depending on gender, age and other determining factors.

Objectives

Upon completion of this module, the student will be able to:

- Identify and define key terms and concepts related to seizure disorders.
- Identify side effects of medications used to treat seizure disorders and their impact on dental hygiene care.
- Develop an emergency management plan for seizures in the dental office.

Readings & Resources

The Patient with a Seizure Disorder, Chapter 62 Wilkins

Patients with Special Needs: Dental Fact Sheets for Children- Epilepsy

Assignments and Activities

- Complete Case Management Group Project
- Post in the Module 5 Case Management Group Discussion.
- Complete the Module 5 Reflective Assignment.
- Complete the Module 5 Quiz.