Antiepileptic drugs for children: carbamazepine and valproic acid derivatives.
To any parent, a seizure is a frightening event and a diagnosis of epilepsy evokes alarm, misunderstanding and a sense of helplessness. The nurse plays a major role not only in acute seizure management but also in providing long-term support, teaching and counseling. As with any child who has seizures, regardless of the type of medication, close monitoring of drug levels and response is important if seizures are to be controlled and toxicity avoided. An understanding and positive approach to the family is needed in managing this chronic disorder. Through proper management, the nurse promotes parental acceptance and security and enhances the child's self image and independence.
Kiker
M
M
College of Nursing, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock 72205-7199.
D002220:Carbamazepine / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D002648:Child; D004569:Electroencephalography / Q000187:drug effects; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing; D006801:Humans; D014635:Valproic Acid / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000031:analogs & derivatives* / Q000627:therapeutic use
D002220:Carbamazepine; D014635:Valproic Acid