title: Protocol for ACTH administration in refractory childhood seizures: educational strategies.
abstract: Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) in gel form is increasingly being used in the treatment of a variety of childhood seizure disorders. The therapy involves intramuscular injections and can be associated with significant morbidity. A teaching/learning plan for parents or caregivers based on Knowles' theory of adult learning was developed and incorporated into the ACTH protocol presented here. Twenty-nine families completed this protocol. Despite a wide range of educational levels and support systems, all caregivers proved capable of administering the medication. Few complications were encountered. In interviews with the caregivers regarding the teaching-learning process, caregivers believed it contributed to their ability to complete the therapeutic program.
authors.affiliation: Epilepsy Management Center, Montefiore Medical Center, New York 10467, USA.
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: O'Dell
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Maloney-Lutz
authors.forename: S
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Shinnar
authors.forename: K
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Ballaban-Gil
authors.forename: H
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Kang
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Lightstone
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Chester
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Sinnett
authors.forename: S L
authors.initials: SL
authors.lastname: Moshe
mesh_terms: D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D000328:Adult; D000927:Anticonvulsants / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D004831:Epilepsies, Myoclonic / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000451:nursing; D004827:Epilepsy / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000451:nursing; D005260:Female; D005782:Gels; D006701:Home Nursing; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007273:Injections, Intramuscular; D008297:Male; D010290:Parents / Q000193:education
chemical_list: D000927:Anticonvulsants; D005782:Gels; D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone