Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026
08:42
A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
Published on: July 31, 2017
Parental preferences for seizure detection devices: A discrete choice experiment
Anouk van Westrhenen1,2, Ben F M Wijnen3,4, Roland D Thijs1,2,5
1Stichting Epilepsie Instellingen Nederland (SEIN), Heemstede, the Netherlands.
Epilepsia
|February 20, 2022
Summary
Parents prioritize high sensitivity in seizure detection devices (SDDs) over high positive predictive value (PPV). Device features and seizure frequency significantly influence these preferences, suggesting tailored approaches are needed.
Area of Science:
- Epilepsy management
- Medical device usability
- Biomedical engineering
Background:
- Previous studies identified essential user preferences for seizure detection devices (SDDs) but did not quantify their relative importance.
- Understanding user preferences is crucial for developing effective and accepted SDDs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the relative importance of different attributes for seizure detection devices (SDDs) among parents of children with epilepsy.
- To identify key determinants of user preferences for SDDs, including sensitivity, positive predictive value (PPV), and device features.
Main Methods:
- A discrete choice experiment (DCE) was conducted using an online questionnaire targeting parents of children with epilepsy.
- The study analyzed 11 unique choice tasks using a mixed multinomial logit model to quantify attribute preferences and their impact on choices.
Main Results:
- Parents generally preferred higher sensitivity (80%-90%) over higher PPV (>50%).
- Preferences for sensitivity-to-PPV ratio correlated with seizure frequency.
- Key preferences included consulting a neurologist before use, personal algorithm training, audio/video interaction, alarms for all seizure types, and detailed measurement interfaces during alarms.
Conclusions:
- User preferences for seizure detection devices (SDDs) are influenced by a variety of factors, including device attributes and individual characteristics like seizure frequency.
- The findings highlight the need for tailored approaches to meet the diverse and sometimes contrasting needs of SDD users.
- Understanding these preferences can guide the development of more user-centered and effective seizure detection technologies.
