Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 7, 2026
04:51
Pupillary Response as Assessment of Effective Seizure Induction by Electroconvulsive Therapy
Published on: April 11, 2019
10.2K
Nursing Implementation of Pupillometry in a Pediatric Epilepsy Monitoring Unit
Meagan Hainlen1, Jennifer L Watt2, DaiWai M Olson3
1Meagan Hainlen, MD, Assistant Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Section of Neurology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Childrens Medical Center, Dallas, TX.
Summary
Quantitative pupillometry, a precise method for assessing the pupillary light reflex (PLR), was successfully implemented by nurses in a pediatric epilepsy monitoring unit (EMU). This nurse-led initiative improved neurological assessments and patient care.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pediatric Nursing
Background:
- Nurses in pediatric epilepsy monitoring units (EMU) assess neurological status, including the pupillary light reflex (PLR).
- Manual PLR assessment has low interrater reliability; quantitative pupillometry offers improved accuracy.
- Quantitative pupillometry use in pediatric EMUs is not well-documented.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the implementation of quantitative pupillometry in a pediatric EMU.
- To evaluate the feasibility and safety of a nurse-led pupillometry initiative.
Main Methods:
- A collaborative nurse-physician effort introduced the NPi-200 pupillometer.
- Nurses received training, and a standardized electronic order was created.
- The device was centrally located to improve accessibility.
Main Results:
- 40 patients underwent pupillometry during the pilot, with 88% complete data.
- No adverse events were reported.
- Nurses found the device easy to use and integrated it into routine care, including for children with developmental delay.
Conclusions:
- Quantitative pupillometry can be safely and effectively implemented in pediatric EMUs via a nurse-driven approach.
- The initiative demonstrated high usability, safety, and integration into clinical practice.
- Supports broader use of pupillometry for neurological monitoring in epilepsy care.
