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01-10-2019 | Epilepsy | Original Article

Epilepsy: knowledge and attitudes of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists

Authors: Katharina Hackel, Martina Patrizia Neininger, Wieland Kiess, Thilo Bertsche, Astrid Bertsche

Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics | Issue 10/2019

Abstract

Physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists play a key role in the treatment of children with epilepsy. We performed a survey of therapists’ knowledge of and attitudes towards epilepsy in two regions of Germany, the city of Leipzig and the rural district of Zwickau. Therapists of 29/68 (43%) outpatient practices and 4/9 (44%) hospitals took part. In total, 195 therapists participated: 63 (32%) physiotherapists, 74 (38%) occupational therapists, and 58 (30%) speech therapist. In 65%, epilepsy was subject of vocational training. Of all therapists, 8% claimed they had not treated epilepsy patients so far. During professional life, 43% had witnessed a seizure. Of all therapists, 44% correctly assumed a seizure could result in death. During a seizure, 42% would perform the obsolete measure of placing something solid in the patient’s mouth, and 41% would administer a prescribed rescue medication. More information on epilepsy was requested by 92%.

Conclusion: Most therapists treat patients with epilepsy, and almost half have already witnessed a seizure. Often, however, epilepsy is not subject of vocational training. The risk of a fatal outcome of a seizure is underestimated, and many therapists would perform obsolete measures. Knowledge of seizure management should be transmitted to therapists especially during vocational training.

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Title: Epilepsy: knowledge and attitudes of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists
Authors: Katharina Hackel
Martina Patrizia Neininger
Wieland Kiess
Thilo Bertsche
Astrid Bertsche
Publication date: 01-10-2019
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Keyword: Epilepsy
Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics / Issue 10/2019
Print ISSN: 0340-6199
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1076
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-019-03437-1

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Epilepsy: knowledge and attitudes of physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists

Abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

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