<p> Aims and intended learning outcomes </p> <p>This article aims to increase nurses' knowledge of the clinical and social sequelae of epilepsy, and to review treatment options.</p> <p>After reading this article, the nurse should be able to:</p> ■ <p>Identify the most important causes of epilepsy</p> ■ <p>Recognise and distinguish the various types of seizure</p> ■ <p>Be aware of common diagnostic techniques</p> ■ <p>Understand the methods of managing the different types of seizure</p> ■ <p>Understand the indications and side-effects of some common antiepilepsy drugs</p> ■ <p>Be aware of the psychosocial effects of epilepsy.</p>