Abstract
Introduction. Differentiation of epileptic seizures from psychogenic nonepileptic seizures (PNES) is problematic andleads to wrong diagnosis. It is estimated that among patients diagnosed with epilepsy, as many as 20–40% sufferedfrom pseudo-epileptic seizures. Misdiagnosis is associated with a delay in the implementation of appropriate treatment,complications following unnecessary treatment, worse functioning of the patient, high costs of care and unemployment.Aim. The aim of the study was to familiarise neuroscience nurses with the causes, symptoms, treatment and nursingcare for a patient with PNES on the basis of the described case.Case Report. Case study of a female patient with psychogenic non-epileptic seizures repeatedly treated in a psychiatricward. Based on an interview with the patient, analysis of the medical documentation, direct and indirect observationof the patient, problems with nursing were identified and a care plan was established.Results. The depicted patient was admitted to a psychiatric ward due to suicidal intentions, decreased mood andepileptic attacks of unknown aetiology. The patient was struggling with numerous psychosocial problems, whichrequired high professional and ethical competences. The patient has been diagnosed with the following care problems:reluctance to undergo video EEG examination, abdominal pain, isolation of the patient in the ward, risk of suicide,risk of injury.Conclusions. The nursing interventions undertaken with respect to the patient turned out to be effective. Improvementin psychosocial functioning was achieved and the patient did not attempt suicide during the crisis. Thanks to theinterdisciplinary cooperation, it was possible to confirm the non-epileptic nature of the seizures, and the patient wasdischarged with therapeutic recommendations (pharmacotherapy, psychotherapy, visits to a mental health clinic).(JNNN 2021;10(1):35–41)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: The Journal of Neurological and Neurosurgical Nursing
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.