Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures: a self-directed learning module for nurses

Background: Psychogenic non-epileptic seizures (PNES) are the result of underlying psychopathology and ineffective coping responses. People with PNES represent a significant proportion of admissions to diagnostic epilepsy units. Nurses who are new or inexperienced working in epilepsy units are unaware of the presence of patients who have PNES and as result, are unprepared to provide individualized nursing care to this patient group. Purpose: The purpose of this practicum was to develop a self-directed PNES learning module for nurses to augment the current nurse orientation education with an aim of developing PNES knowledge and sensitivity in nurses before they are assigned their first patient. Methods: Three methodologies were used and completed in this practicum which included an environmental scan, a review of the literature and consultations with key stakeholders. Results: The self-directed PNES learning module was composed of three units which included explanations of key terms essential to nursing care and engagement of the patient who has PNES. Themes of advocacy and compassion are central to the body of work. Conclusion: The goal of the practicum was achieved in its delivery of a resource which provides a means to resolve the learning needs of novice or inexperienced nurses transferring into diagnostic epilepsy units. The practicum has produced a tangible means to improve the nursing care provided to patients who have PNES by developing competency and sensitivity in nurses tasked with providing individualized care to these patients