Journal of Pediatric Epilepsy 2016; 05(04): 176-181
DOI: 10.1055/s-0036-1584930
Review Article
Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Nursing Role on the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit: A Historical Perspective

Cornelia Handy Gonsalves
1   Florida Epilepsy Center/Florida Hospital for Children, Pediatric Epilepsy Program, Orlando, Florida, United States
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

15 April 2016

10 May 2016

Publication Date:
01 July 2016 (online)

Abstract

Epilepsy is a significant neurological disorder in children, affecting developmental progress, academic achievement, and employment possibilities. It influences an individual's social potential and family quality of life. Completing a comprehensive and accurate epilepsy evaluation is key toward making the correct diagnosis and, subsequently, providing the best treatment for an affected child or adolescent. Nurses are key team members who can promote complete, safe, efficient, and precise testing for a child and family. Their compassion may also help lessen stress for the person with epilepsy and his support system. Since much of this specialized evaluation occurs on an epilepsy monitoring unit at level 4 sites throughout the United States, it is important to review nursing roles and offer recommendations to guide future role development and practice.