The management of epilepsy in children: the role of the clinical nurse specialist

Epilepsy in children is frequently accompanied by learning, behavioural and psychological difficulties. These difficulties may be compounded by the ignorance and stigma which exists within the community health care and education services. The management of epilepsy in children therefore extends far beyond the use of antiepileptic drugs and must address these additional problems. The establishment of a nurse specialist service in paediatric epilepsy within our hospital has provided a more satisfactory and comprehensive management of these children and, in addition, has facilitated a close liaison with schools, community health personnel and support groups; as a result this has dispelled much of the local ignorance, misunderstanding and stigma surrounding epilepsy.