Abstract

Diagnostic confidence and management of first seizures can be challenging, particularly for junior doctors. This audit evaluates the impact of a clinical pathway based on recommendations by the College of Emergency Medicine, which intended to improve the management of such patients at a UK DGH.

A systematic search identified cases spanning 3 months either side of the date of introduction of the pathway. 23 pre- and 25 post-pathway cases presenting to A&E or as inpatients were randomly selected, excluding cases with a known seizure-related diagnosis.

The pathway was only utilised in 16% of cases. Referral to neurology clinic increased from 30% to 52%, but attending within the recommended 2 weeks of ictus remained infrequent (8%). Clinical assessment worsened in several categories, including documenting a drug history, obtaining an ECG, and blood glucose measurement. Documenting discussions about driving decreased from 43% to 36%.

Findings confirm suboptimal investigation and follow-up of first seizures, with a surprising deterioration after introduction of a local clinical guideline. This audit demonstrates the importance of cultural change in addition to the availability of a structured guideline. We propose this can be achieved by dedicated junior doctor training sessions and development of a patient information leaflet.