Buccal midazolam is a medication that is used to manage seizures quickly and effectively. It is given by placing the liquid medicine inside the cheek of the person having a seizure, as this allows it to absorb into the bloodstream, calm the brain, and stop the seizure activity. Doctors often prescribe buccal for people with epilepsy, especially children, as it works as an emergency treatment for prolonged seizures or clusters of seizures that occur close together.
Training for buccal midazolam use
You may need to administer buccal midazolam if you are a family member, teacher, or caregiver of someone who has seizures. All these people need specialised training before they can give this kind of medicine, with training providers such as https://www.tidaltraining.co.uk/clinical-training-courses/ offering clinical training courses for the administering of buccal midazolam.
The training should cover several key areas. First, trainees learn to recognise the signs of a seizure that will require intervention with midazolam. This includes learning about tonic-clonic (grand mal) seizures and recognising the difference between what is a typical seizure for the person and how to spot a more severe seizure.
The training will also include learning about the proper dosage of buccal, depending on age and weight, and hands-on practice with demonstrator kits to learn the correct technique for administering the medication. This involves carefully placing the liquid inside the cheek without making the person choke or swallow the medicine, which would make it less effective. Trainees will also learn about potential side effects to watch out for and when to seek additional medical help.
Importance of proper training
Proper training is important because it makes sure the person receiving the medication is safe. When used correctly, buccal can be a lifesaving intervention; however, improper use could lead to serious complications. Training helps reduce the risk of errors in dosage or administration technique and gives caregivers the confidence to act quickly in an emergency situation.
Seizures can be very frightening to witness, but well-trained people are more likely to remain calm and follow the correct procedures.