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Registration Number: {{org_field_registration_no}}

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Epilepsy Awareness and Seizure Management Policy

1. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to ensure that {{org_field_name}} provides a safe, supportive, and well-informed environment for people we support who have epilepsy. This policy ensures compliance with CQC regulations, NICE guidelines, and health and social care best practices to prevent risks and ensure appropriate care during seizures. It also establishes clear guidance for staff on identifying, responding to, and documenting seizures.

2. Scope

This policy applies to all staff, including care workers, nurses, managers, and support personnel involved in providing care for people with epilepsy at {{org_field_name}}. It covers:

• Epilepsy risk assessments and care planning.
• Training and competency requirements for staff.
• Safe administration of anti-epileptic medication.
• Responding to seizures and emergency management.
• Monitoring and documentation procedures.
• Collaboration with healthcare professionals and families.

3. Legal and Regulatory Framework

This policy aligns with:

• Health and Social Care Act 2008 (Regulated Activities) Regulations 2014 – Ensures safe care and treatment for individuals with epilepsy.
• CQC Regulation 12 – Safe Care and Treatment – Requires providers to mitigate risks related to epilepsy management【36†source】.
• Mental Capacity Act 2005 – Governs decision-making for individuals who lack capacity due to epilepsy-related conditions.
• Equality Act 2010 – Ensures individuals with epilepsy are not discriminated against and receive appropriate adjustments.
• NICE Clinical Guideline CG137 – Provides best practice guidance on diagnosing and managing epilepsy.

4. Related Policies

This policy is linked to other care and health policies within {{org_field_name}}, ensuring comprehensive care for individuals with epilepsy, including:

• CH11 – Safe Care and Treatment Policy
• CH21 – Medication Management and Administration Policy
• CH13 – Safeguarding Adults from Abuse and Improper Treatment Policy
• CH18 – Risk Management and Assessment Policy
• CH42 – Communication and Engagement with People We Support and Families Policy

5. Policy Statement

{{org_field_name}} is committed to providing person-centred care for people with epilepsy. Our goal is to:

• Recognise epilepsy as a neurological condition requiring specialist understanding and support.
• Ensure all staff are trained to provide safe and responsive care during seizures.
• Reduce risks associated with epilepsy, including injury, prolonged seizures, and medication mismanagement.
• Promote dignity, independence, and quality of life for people with epilepsy through personalised care planning.

6. Epilepsy Risk Assessment and Care Planning

• Individual Risk Assessments – Each person with epilepsy must have a comprehensive risk assessment detailing:
  • Seizure type, frequency, and known triggers.
  • Medication regime and emergency protocols.
  • Environmental adjustments to minimise risk (e.g., padded furniture, anti-suffocation pillows).
  • Activities that require additional precautions (e.g., swimming, bathing, cooking).
• Personalised Care Plans – Each person’s care plan must include:
  • A detailed seizure management plan.
  • Guidelines on post-seizure support and recovery.
  • Protocols for emergency situations (e.g., when to call emergency services).

7. Staff Training and Competency

• Mandatory Epilepsy Awareness Training – All care staff must complete epilepsy awareness training, including recognising different seizure types and first-aid responses.
• Medication Administration Training – Staff administering anti-epileptic drugs (AEDs) must be trained in safe administration, storage, and monitoring of side effects.
• Emergency Seizure Management – Designated staff must be trained in rescue medication administration (e.g., buccal midazolam) following NICE and local authority guidelines.

8. Seizure Management and Emergency Response

a. Responding to a Seizure

• Stay with the person and time the seizure – Ensure safety by removing hazards and providing reassurance.
• Do not restrain the person – Protect from harm but allow the seizure to run its course.
• Aftercare and Recovery Position – Ensure clear airways and place the person in the recovery position if needed.
• Monitor and Document – Record the seizure duration, symptoms, and recovery observations.

b. Emergency Situations (Call 999 or 112 if):

• The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes.
• The person has multiple seizures without recovery in between.
• The person is injured, has difficulty breathing, or their condition deteriorates.
• It is the first seizure the person has experienced.

9. Medication Management

• Administration of AEDs – Staff must administer AEDs as prescribed and record compliance.
• Storage and Security – Medication must be stored safely and in line with regulatory requirements.
• Monitoring and Side Effects – Any side effects or concerns must be reported to healthcare professionals.
• Rescue Medication Protocol – Buccal midazolam or rectal diazepam must only be administered by trained staff.

10. Communication and Family Involvement

• Collaboration with Healthcare Providers – Regular medical reviews with GPs, neurologists, and pharmacists to ensure effective epilepsy management.
• Engagement with Families – Families must be involved in care planning and provided with updates on seizure activity and medication changes.
• Supporting Informed Decision-Making – Individuals must be supported to make choices regarding their epilepsy care within their capacity.

11. Documentation and Incident Reporting

• Seizure Log – All seizures must be recorded, including duration, triggers, and post-seizure care.
• Accident and Incident Reports – Any seizure-related injury or emergency intervention must be documented and reviewed.
• Regular Care Plan Reviews – Epilepsy care plans must be reviewed regularly or after any significant change in condition.

12. Monitoring and Compliance

• Regular Audits – Management will conduct audits to assess epilepsy care standards, medication administration, and staff training.
• Feedback Mechanisms – People we support and their families will have opportunities to provide feedback on epilepsy care.
• CQC Compliance Checks – Regular compliance reviews to ensure adherence to safe care practices.

13. Responsibilities

• Registered Manager – Oversees epilepsy care provision, staff training, and compliance with CQC regulations.
• Nursing and Care Staff – Responsible for providing safe care, administering medication, and responding to seizures appropriately.
• Health and Safety Lead – Ensures environmental risks are minimised and safety procedures are followed.
• People We Support and Families – Encouraged to share information on seizure patterns and provide feedback on care plans.

14. Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to comply with this policy may result in:

• Disciplinary action for staff failing to follow epilepsy management protocols.
• Regulatory enforcement from CQC for inadequate epilepsy care provision.
• Risk to individuals due to improper seizure response, leading to harm or hospitalisation.

15. Policy Review

This policy will be reviewed annually or sooner if legislative changes or service improvements require amendments. Staff, families, and healthcare professionals will be consulted to ensure best practices are upheld.

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Responsible Person: {{org_field_registered_manager_first_name}} {{org_field_registered_manager_last_name}}
Reviewed on: {{last_update_date}}
Next Review Date: {{next_review_date}}
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