DIASTAT Diazepam Gel rectal Administration Seizure Medication Training

Summary

This video focuses on the proper administration of seizure rescue medications, particularly diazepam (Diastat). It highlights the risks of status epilepticus, emphasizing the importance of timely treatment to prevent severe outcomes like brain damage or death. Caregivers are guided through the administration process, including preparation, dosage confirmation, and step-by-step instructions for safely delivering the medication. The video aims to empower caregivers with knowledge and confidence to manage seizures effectively, ensuring the safety and well-being of patients during emergencies.

Takeaways

• 🚑 Prolonged tonic-clonic seizures or clusters of shorter seizures left untreated can lead to status epilepticus, which is a medical emergency.
• ⏳ Status epilepticus is defined as a seizure lasting 5 minutes or longer, or multiple seizures occurring back-to-back without normal consciousness in between.
• 🕒 Timely treatment (within 3 to 5 minutes) can help prevent status epilepticus and reduce the risk of permanent brain damage or death.
• 🏥 Early intervention can potentially prevent a trip to the emergency room by following the prescribed seizure emergency medication protocol.
• 💊 Diazepam (Diastat) is a common benzodiazepine used for patients aged 2 years and older who require occasional seizure control.
• 📋 Caregivers should read and understand the administration and disposal instructions for Diastat, as provided in the full prescribing information.
• 🔍 Ensure the pharmacist provides the correct dosage of Diastat, which is pre-loaded and indicated by a green ready band.
• 👩‍⚕️ Always follow healthcare providers' directions regarding dosage, timing, and repeat administration of Diastat.
• 🧰 Keep all necessary supplies together in a safe and easily accessible location for quick access during a seizure.
• 📅 Monitor and note the time the medication was administered, and ensure the patient remains on their side during and after the seizure.

Q & A

What are prolonged tonic-clonic seizures?

Prolonged tonic-clonic seizures are seizures that last for 5 minutes or longer or occur multiple times back to back without the person returning to a normal level of consciousness.

What is status epilepticus?

Status epilepticus is a serious medical condition characterized by a seizure lasting 5 minutes or longer or multiple seizures occurring in a short time without recovery in between.

Why is it important to treat seizures quickly?

Prompt treatment within 3 to 5 minutes can prevent the onset of status epilepticus and help avoid permanent brain damage or death.

What type of medication is commonly prescribed for seizure emergencies?

Benzodiazepines, particularly diazepam or Diastat, are commonly prescribed for controlling breakthrough seizures and clusters of seizures.

At what age can patients use Diastat?

Diastat is indicated for patients 2 years of age and older who are on stable anti-epileptic drugs and require occasional use to control increased seizure activity.

What should caregivers do before administering Diastat?

Caregivers should read and understand the administration and disposal instructions in the Diastat prescribing information and ensure the pharmacist has locked in the correct dosage.

How should the patient be positioned when administering Diastat?

The patient should be turned onto their side facing the caregiver to facilitate the administration of the medication.

What is the procedure for administering Diastat?

Remove the protective cover, lubricate the syringe tip, expose the rectum, insert the syringe gently, push the plunger in while counting to three, and then press the buttocks together to prevent leaking.

What should caregivers do after administering the medication?

Caregivers should keep the person on their side, continue to observe them, and note the time when the Diastat was administered.

Why is it important to keep seizure emergency supplies together?

Keeping all seizure emergency supplies together in a safe and easily accessible location ensures that caregivers can respond quickly when a seizure occurs.