Preventing Epilepsy Deaths: Clinician Toolkit
Examples of Empowering Conversations

When your pediatric patient has accidents

Determine if your patient needs to avoid lifestyle, occupational, and recreational activities

Seizures can happen at any time, causing you to seriously injure yourself or someone you love. You mentioned you are still [high-risk activity].  We discussed that was not safe while you are still having seizures. 

I’m fine.  I only have a seizure once a month, and I really love [high-risk activity].  Don’t take that away from me too.

I can only imagine how difficult it is for you to think about making these adjustments. No two patients are the same, but I do have experience working with many patients to find the best ways to stay safe. Let’s talk about ways you can maintain your independence while protecting yourself and the people around you from serious injury.

It sounds like you have a lot on your plate, and time is limited. Some busy patients find seizure tracking apps (or a seizure alert device) very easy to use. Can I show you an app that many of my patients find useful?

You can also use your cell phone to document seizures on your calendar since most people keep their cell phone with them at all times.