UNDERSTANDING EPILEPSY - LEVEL 2 COURSE

The course includes the following units:

Unit 1 - An introduction to the brain

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Explain how brain and central nervous system (CNS) work and the effect they have on behaviour, Explain the basic biology of electrical activity in the brain.

Unit 2 - Different epilepsy syndromes

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Understand the use of epilepsy as an umbrella term, Explain different types of epilepsy and the associated symptoms, Be able to explain what is meant by status epilepticus.

Unit 3 - Causes of epilepsy

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Describe what happens to electrical activity in the brain during a seizure, Understand the relationship between the female menstrual cycle and seizures, Identify common seizure triggers.

Unit 4 - Diagnosing epilepsy

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Understand why it is important to keep a seizure diary prior to diagnosis, Know what information to enter into the diary, Name and describe diagnostic tests used in epilepsy, Explain the lifestyle changes someone might experience after diagnosis.

Unit 5 - Treating epilepsy

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Be able to explain how anti-epileptics work on the brain, Name the generic and brand names of different anti-epileptic drugs, Identify some side effects of several anti-epileptic drugs, Understand what is meant by vagal nerve stimulation, Outline when surgery might be considered for epilepsy, Be familiar with a range of complimentary therapies for epilepsy.

Unit 6 - What to do when someone is having a seizure

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Identify when it is important to call an ambulance, Be able to consult care plans to learn what to do when clients have a seizure, Be familiarised with a range of first aid considerations for epilepsy.

Unit 7 - Managing epilepsy

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Understand why it is important to keep accurate seizure records, Identify ways in which existing seizure records can be improved, Write accurate seizure records, Identify ways of making the environment safe for people who have seizures.

Unit 8 - Impact of epilepsy on a person's life

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Understand the relationship between depression and epilepsy, Identify stress factors in the environment, Suggest ways memory aids can be used in the environment, Be familiar with financial issues epilepsy can introduce, Identify financial assistance available, Understand why disclosing epilepsy is important, Describe the social, psychological and economic impact of epilepsy and suggest ways in which these can be overcome.

Unit 9 - Supporting vulnerable people with epilepsy

The following topics are covered: Epilepsy in later life, Epilepsy with dementia, Epilepsy with learning disabilities.

Unit 10 - Maintaining dignity and respect

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Define dignity, Explain what is meant by person-centred planning, Identify challenges to dignity, Identify when discrimination has occurred and how this will make someone feel, Be aware of the correct terminology to refer to a person who suffers from epilepsy.

Unit 11 - Explaining the myths

At the end of this unit you will be able to: Explain the truth behind some myths surrounding epilepsy.

Unit 12 - Relevant UK legislation

At the end of this unit you will be: Aware of The Equality Act (2010) and how it protects people with epilepsy, Be able to explain why epilepsy is considered a disability, Able to suggest some reasonable adjustments, Understand the driving rules and regulations surrounding epilepsy.