Effect of Simulation-Based Education Intervention on Seizure Care and Maintaining Safety among Mothers of Epileptic Children

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant professor of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Port-Said University

2 Lecturer of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Zagazig University

3 Assistant Lecturer of Critical Nursing, Gouna Technical Nursing Institute, Hurghada, Red Sea, Egypt,

4 Lecturer of Pediatric Nursing, Faculty of Nursing, Damietta University.

Abstract

Background: Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder among children, and managing seizure attacks effectively is vital to prevent complications. Mothers, as primary caregivers, often face challenges due to insufficient knowledge and preparedness in handling such events. Simulation-based education has emerged as a promising tool to enhance caregivers’ competence and confidence. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of a simulation-based education intervention on seizure care and maintaining safety among mothers of epileptic children. Methods: A quasi-experimental pre–post study was conducted on a purposive sample of 53 mothers of epileptic children admitted to the Pediatric Neurological Ward and Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Zagazig University Pediatric Hospital. Data was collected using a structured interview questionnaire to assess mothers’ knowledge and an observational checklist to evaluate their practices. The simulation-based intervention was implemented in three sessions, including theoretical instruction, practical demonstrations, and guided re-demonstration. Post-intervention evaluation occurred three months after discharge. Results: The findings revealed a significant improvement in mothers’ knowledge and practices after the intervention. The percentage of mothers with good knowledge increased from 17% to 39.6%, and appropriate seizure care practices rose from 35.8% to 71.7% (p < 0.001). There was a strong positive correlation between post-intervention knowledge and practice scores. Conclusion: Simulation-based education significantly improved mothers’ knowledge and practices related to seizure care and child safety. This educational approach is effective in empowering caregivers and enhancing pediatric epilepsy care outcomes. Recommendations: Healthcare providers should integrate simulation-based training into routine educational programs for caregivers of children with epilepsy. Additionally, family-centered care strategies using digital platforms and varied educational tools should be adopted to support ongoing learning, promote safety, and reduce seizure-related complications.

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