What is Seizures?

Sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbance in the brain. This leads to temporary disruptions in normal brain function. 

Types of Seizures

Generalized Seizures

Mnemonic: "GENeralized Electric Dance" - The whole body gets involved in this seizure party!


1. Tonic-Clonic

May begin with an aura.

Tonic: stiffening Clonic: jerking

2. Myoclonic

Sudden jerking movement of extremities

3. Absence

Loss of awareness (stare blankly into space)

4. Atonic

Sudden loss of muscle strength/tone

Partial Seizures

Mnemonic: "FOCal Power Surge" - Sparks fly in a specific part of the brain!


1. Simple Partial

Does not affect awareness/LOC

2. Complex Partial

Altered awareness/LOC 

Nursing Actions

Download the full MedSurg Notes


Download the Full Nursing Mega Bundle that is currently on sale to follow along the MedSurg Section.


The MedSurg Nursing Notes include over 100 disorders with in depth review on the pathophysiology, risk factors, signs and symptoms, diagnostic tests, treatment and nursing actions