When one is in a prolonged seizure, a plan and appropriate tools may prove to be the difference. Buccal midazolam is an emergency/ rescue treatment drug frequently prescribed to use in some forms of seizures. It is also a rapid-acting medication that can be administered in a relatively easy way, thus forming a significant component of numerous individual care plans in the UK.
What is Buccal Midazolam?
Buccal midazolam is a liquid drug belonging to the benzodiazepines. The term ‘buccal’ merely indicates the route of administration, which is within the cheek. The drug is taken in the lining of the mouth, and it passes directly into the blood. This is a quick-acting adopted method that can be used to stop a seizure within a time of 5 to 10 minutes. It is also commonly used in those who have a history of long or cluster seizures and commonly in care homes, schools, and by community responders.
When Is It Used?
Not all seizures can be treated with this medication. It is actually designed to be used in cases where a seizure exceeds the normal period that a patient has, at a longer period than the normal length of his or her seizure. Or as indicated in an individualised plan of epilepsy management. This plan, which is usually formulated in conjunction with a neurologist or epilepsy specialist nurse, will provide precise instructions regarding the time when the medication should be administered. This is normally after one has experienced a seizure that lasts a specific period, in most cases, five minutes. It is important to have a set of written instructions that a person who may be required to administer the medicine has.
How to Administer It Correctly
The administration of the buccal midazolam is to be done carefully yet fast. The drug is delivered in an injection-form oral syringe. All of the prescribed medication is squirted in between the gum and cheek referred to as the buccal cavity. Good use would be to divide the dose in both sides of the mouth, inasmuch as possible, to facilitate absorption. The administer should never place his/her fingers in the mouth of a person receiving it. Satisfactory Buccal Midazolam Training guarantees that carers are tough and poised in such a procedure.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Another common mistake is to take the dosage too fast such that one can swallow it as opposed to it being absorbed across the lining of the cheeks. When ingested, the drug also requires a lot of time to operate because it must pass through the digestive tract. The other error is that one needs not wait the recommended time before he/she administers the dose because most of the seizures will subside on its own. One more detail that should not be overlooked is that it is crucial to take a second dose only when it is specified by the medical professional or said in the care plan.
Storage and Record Keeping
Buccal midazolam like any other medicine must be stored appropriately. One should maintain it in the original packaging, at the room temperature and avoid direct sunlight and access by children. It is important to note the time, the date, and the dose administered after administration. This fact is valuable in the medical history of the person, as well as paramedics in case of the location ambulance. The elaborate record structure assists in continuity of care and can give an accurate history of the seizure activity and treatment.
Legal and Consent Issues in a UK Care Setting
Any medication that happens to be administered has to be administered using adequate consent through the UK. In the case of buccal midazolam, the coverage is normally included in the detailed health care plan of the individual that must be agreed upon by the individual or his or her legal guardian. The providers of care such as schools and homes should make sure that those employed in them are well trained and are operating within the established procedure. This safeguards the individual under care as well as the professional employee providing the life-saving treatment. Read more.