Parental response during a febrile seizure in their child and their knowledge on preparedness for a similar recurrence in their child: A study from the Lady Ridgeway Children’s Hospital

Abstract

Introduction: Febrile seizures (FS) are the commonest convulsions in children in the 6-60 month age group. They are a cause of great concern and fear for the parents, often resulting in inappropriate management. Objectives:To describe the parental responses during FS and to document the parental knowledge on how to manage a recurrence. Method:A prospective study was performed on 160 randomly selected parents of children admitted to Lady Ridgeway Children's Hospital with FS over a two year period. A pretested and validated interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to assess the parental immediate responses towards the seizure and knowledge on how to manage the next seizure. Results:The mean age of the affected children was 2.2 years (SD 1.50). The male: female ratio was 1.53:1. The majority (58%) were admitted with a first FS. The type of FS was simple in 75.6% and complex in 24.4%. Only 28% had ongoing seizures during the admission. The negative parental responses towards the seizure were becoming frightened in 144 (90%), confused about what to do in 76 (47.5%), and attempting to open the mouth by force in 37 (23%). Positive responses included keeping the child in a safe posture in 76 (47.5%), shouting for help in 114 (71.3%) and feeling empowered to manage the seizure appropriately in _________________________________________