Proactive identification of seizure risk improves terminal care

Abstract

Seizures are a common neurologic consequence of various etiologies in the end-stage cancer patient. Because dying cancer patients and their families are often coping with new challenges daily, any intervention that can prevent further patient or family discomfort should be implemented. The purpose of this study was to evaluate four pharmacy interventions aimed at improving nursing care to cancer patients at a facility for the terminally ill. The four interventions were development of a seizure risk factor assessment toll, assembly or availability of a diazepam seizure kit, nursing education via in-service training, and development of a manual for nursing stations. Successful implementation of this project indicated that nurses perceived an empowerment in improving quality of life of their patients.