Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a common disorder of the brain that causes recurring seizures. Epilepsy affects people of all ages, but children and older adults are more likely to have epilepsy. Seizures are the main sign of epilepsy and most people can control this with treatment. Some seizures can look like staring spells while other seizures can cause a person to collapse, stiffen or shake, and become unaware of what’s going on around them. Many times the cause is unknown.
Picture a school with 1,000 students—that means about 6 students would have epilepsy.2 For many children, epilepsy is easily controlled with medication and they can do what all the other kids can do, and perform as well academically. For others, it can be more challenging.
Compared with students with other health concerns, a CDC study shows that students aged 6–17 years with epilepsy were more likely to miss 11 or more days of school in the past year.3 Also, students with epilepsy were more likely to have difficulties in school, use special education services, and have activity limitations such as less participation in sports or clubs compared with students with other medical conditions.
Visit the CDC Seizure First Aid website for information on how to help someone during or after a seizure.
Managing epilepsy while at school may involve:
- Educating the school nurse, teachers, staff, and students about epilepsy and its treatment, seizure first aid, and possible stigma associated with epilepsy. Visit the Epilepsy Foundation Learning Portal for seizure training courses for school nurses and school personnel.
- Following the seizure action plan and administering first aid (including the use of rescue medications).
- Understanding the importance of medication adherence and supporting students who take daily medications.
- Helping students avoid seizure triggers, such as flashing lights, or other triggers identified in the seizure action plan.
- Monitoring and addressing any related medical conditions, including mental health concerns such as depression.
- Providing case management services for students whose medical condition disrupts their school attendance or academic performance.
- Referring students with uncontrolled seizures to medical services within the community or to the Epilepsy Foundation for more information.
- Understanding the laws related to disability, medical conditions, and special education to ensure that children with epilepsy are able to access the free and appropriate education afforded to them under the law.
- Monitoring student behavior to prevent bullying of students with epilepsy.
See an example of a fillable Seizure Action Plan [PDF – 249 KB] from the Epilepsy Foundation.
For Professionals
Epilepsy Foundation–Managing Students with Seizures for School Nurses
Epilepsy Foundation–Seizure Training for School Personnel
School Health Profiles and Practices Brief: Epilepsy and Seizure Disorders [PDF – 1.72 MB]
Epilepsy - National Association of School Nurses (nasn.org)
For Students and Families
CDC–You Are Not Alone Parent Toolkit
Epilepsy Foundation – Seizure Recognition and First Aid Certification. (for anyone)
