When benzodiazepines fail: how effective is second line therapy for status epilepticus in children?

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: To define the characteristics and management of children presenting to the ED of a major tertiary paediatric hospital with convulsive status epilepticus (CSE). To determine the timing and efficacy of therapeutic interventions in this group and to identify factors that influence the effectiveness of treatment. METHOD: A retrospective audit of all children who presented to an ED of a tertiary paediatric hospital in CSE over a 3 year period. RESULTS: Thirty-seven cases were identified. Prehospital treatment had been administered in 51%. Uncomplicated seizure control was achieved in 30% with the combination of first and second line therapy. Rapid sequence induction (RSI) of anaesthes..