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- Pediatric seizures are common and 4-6% of all children will have a seizure by the time they are 16 years old.
- Afebrile neonatal seizures require an evaluation of electrolytes, glucose, calcium, magnesium, LP, blood and urine cultures.
- Simple Febrile seizures usually do not require any lab testing or admission if the child appears well.
- Dilution of formula with too much water is a common cause of hyponatremic seizures in infants. (Treat with 3ml/kg of 3% hypertonic saline)
- Complex febrile seizures have a higher risk for meningitis than simple febrile seizures, so perform an LP, give antibiotics, and admit.
- When intubating for Status Epilepticus consider using thiopental or propofol for induction given their antiepileptic properties.
References
Berg C, Schumann H. An Evidence-Based Approach to Pediatric Seizures in the Emergency Department. Pediatric Emergency Medicine Practice. Feb 2009. Vol 6, Number 2.