Epilepsy in the elderly.
Other than children under the age of 5 years, the highest incidence of new onset epilepsy occurs in the population over 65 years of age. Risk factors in this age group include stroke, head trauma, dementia, infection, alcoholism and aging. Clinically, seizure behavior may be confused with other neurological impairments, thus delaying accurate diagnosis. Concomitant drug therapy affects the choice of antiepileptic drugs. Neuroscience nurses need to identify high-risk patients, recognize and document seizure activity and adverse drug reactions and interactions, and modify traditional seizure first aid for the frail elderly. An understanding of the psychosocial impact of epilepsy is necessary when offering education and support to the patient and family.
Lannon
S L
SL
University of Cincinnati Hospital, Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, Ohio 45267-0518.
D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000493:pharmacokinetics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016903:Drug Monitoring; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology* / Q000451:nursing; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009730:Nursing Assessment; D009733:Nursing Diagnosis; D012307:Risk Factors
D000927:Anticonvulsants