Protocol for ACTH administration in refractory childhood seizures: educational strategies.
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.
O'Dell
C
C
Epilepsy Management Center, Montefiore Medical Center, New York 10467, USA.
Maloney-Lutz
K
K
Shinnar
S
S
Ballaban-Gil
K
K
Kang
H
H
Lightstone
L
L
Chester
L
L
Sinnett
M
M
Moshe
S L
SL
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
D000927:Anticonvulsants; D005782:Gels; D000324:Adrenocorticotropic Hormone