Implementation of an evidence-based seizure algorithm in intellectual disability nursing: A pilot study

Area of Science:

• Nursing
• Intellectual Disability
• Epilepsy Management

Background:

• Individuals with intellectual disability (ID) have high epilepsy rates.
• Nurses in ID settings provide crucial seizure guidance via telephone triage.
• Evidence-based tools are vital for best practice in seizure management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess if nurses in intellectual disability settings gain confidence using the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses (AANN) Seizure Algorithm.
• To evaluate the algorithm's impact on guiding care decisions during telephone triage.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Surrogate Decision-Making Self Efficacy Scale.
• Assessed confidence levels of nurses implementing the AANN Seizure Algorithm during telephone triage.
• Analyzed data from a small sample of study participants.

Main Results:

• Implementation of the AANN Seizure Algorithm significantly increased nurse self-confidence in guiding care decisions.
• The treatment effect was statistically significant (-3.169, p < 0.01).
• Increased confidence is clinically essential for providing effective seizure guidance.

Conclusions:

• The AANN Seizure Algorithm is an effective tool for enhancing nurse confidence in managing seizures via telephone triage for individuals with ID.
• Formal training in seizure management may be necessary for nurses due to high epilepsy prevalence in this population.
• Evidence-based tools support best practices and improve patient care outcomes.