Component Task: Home Visit to a Client with Epilepsy

This is a visit to a client with epilepsy by the Public/Community health nurse in his/her home.

Aims

·         Counsel client and family on situations that trigger attack and signs of imminent seizures

·         Encourage client and family to honour follow up visits and adhere to prescribed medication

·         Counsel client and family on social isolation, stigma and misconceptions about the condition

·         Educate client and family on safety measures

Types

·         Special

·         Routine

Requirements

·         Refer to items in the well-equipped home visiting bag

·         Map of the area/community

·         Records of the client manually/electronically

·         Register of the area/community

·         Arrange for transportation

Steps

1.      Read map of the community

2.      Knock, enter, greet and introduce self

3.      Explain the purpose of visit

4.      Observe environment for cleanliness, safety and comment

5.      Assist client to identify health needs

6.      Check and use items in the home visit bag

7.       Interview and counsel client on:

·         The health of client and relatives

·         Drug treatment

·         Existing problems

·         Schooling/occupation

·         Causes, management and prevention of the disease

·         Personal health

·         Diet

·         Prevention of home accidents

8.      Refer problems beyond scope to the appropriate place

9.      Counsel Client on regular check-ups, schedule for next visit and thank them for their co-operation

10.    Record and report findings manually/electronically