Objective To develop and preliminarily evaluate a case management-based care program for preschool children with epilepsy. Methods The study consisted of three phases: a cross-sectional survey of 22 hospitals, development of the care program via Delphi method (17 experts), and a non-concurrent controlled trial involving 104 children (52 each in control and intervention groups). Results The developed program comprised 6 domains and 33 items. After one month of intervention, the intervention group showed significantly higher medication adherence (P=0.012) and caregiver knowledge scores (P<0.001) compared to the control group. Conclusion The case management-based care program is feasible and effective in improving medication adherence and caregiver knowledge in preschool children with epilepsy.
To report a case of a 1-year-old female child admitted to the hospital with recurrent convulsions and diagnosed as West syndrome, also known as infantile spasms (IS). The child had been experiencing convulsions for 4 months prior to admission, characterized by forward head tilt and flexion of the limbs, with 8 ~ 10 episodes per day. After admission, West syndrome was identified by EEG and imaging evaluation, and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) shock therapy was started on day 5 of admission, supplemented with peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), gastric protection, calcium and potassium supplementation and other supportive measures. During the course of treatment, the nursing team implemented meticulous monitoring and assessment to ensure that the child's vital signs were stabilized, and potential side effects were detected and treated in a timely manner. After 14 days of treatment, the child had no further spasticity episodes during 3 ~ 14 days, and was discharged from the hospital with continued oral hormone intake and regular follow-up. During the nursing process, the nursing staff provided psychological support and education to the child and her family to help the family understand the disease and enhance their ability to manage it. In addition, personalized nutritional support and monitoring were provided to ensure the healthy growth of the child. The successful management of this case not only enhanced the quality of clinical care, but also provided useful reference and inspiration for similar cases.