Epilepsy is one of the most common neurological conditions in the UK, affecting around 633,000 people – approximately one in every 100. A further 600 people are diagnosed every week. For care and support staff working with people who have epilepsy, understanding the condition and knowing what to do when someone has a seizure can be an important part of providing safe, person-centred care.
While many seizures stop on their own, some people may have an individual care plan which includes emergency rescue medication. One medication that may be prescribed is Buccal Midazolam, which can be administered into the side of the mouth to help stop a prolonged or repeated seizure. However, knowing that Buccal Midazolam may need to be given and feeling confident about administering it are two very different things.
The possible difficulties of administering Buccal Midazolam
A seizure can be a stressful and fast-moving situation. The person may be moving, clenching their jaw or lying in a position which makes administration more difficult. Staff may also be dealing with other concerns at the same time, including keeping the person safe and monitoring the duration of the seizure. They may also feel uncertainty. When exactly should the medication be given? What dose has been prescribed? What should happen if the seizure continues? When should emergency services be called?
These are not situations where staff should be left trying to remember information from a policy document. Every individual with epilepsy is different, and staff need to understand the importance of following the person’s own care plan and prescribed instructions. The NHS also makes clear that carers can follow an agreed care plan, including administering emergency medication, when they know what to do and have been trained.
Why Buccal Midazolam training matters
Training can give staff the opportunity to understand epilepsy and seizures, learn about the purpose of rescue medication and discuss the practical challenges that can arise when administering Buccal Midazolam. Just as importantly, it gives people the opportunity to ask questions, practise procedures and build confidence before they are faced with a real-life situation.
At Specialised Training UK, our Administration of Buccal Midazolam course has been developed for staff supporting individuals who may require emergency seizure medication. Training can help ensure that staff understand their responsibilities and are better prepared to respond calmly, confidently and appropriately. The right training can help staff feel prepared for the realities of the situation, including the challenges that may arise.
Fantastic Feedback
We recently received this testimonial from a training manager after delivering our course to their care staff:
“I’ve got to say that the learner feedback of the training yesterday was absolutely amazing. Staff really enjoyed it, which of course is a testament to your teaching ability. Thank you so much, and we look forward to seeing you again soon.”
Seizure, Epilepsy and Emergency Rescue Medication
Find out more about the training program and how to book:
01372 231 011 or 07787 504 622
Or email: info@specialisedtraininguk.com
Use the contact form on this website.
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