Introduction

Status epilepticus (SE) is a neurologic emergency that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment to maximize patient outcome. The rapid termination of seizures and SE both in locations outside the hospital and in the emergency department (ED) prevents acute complications and minimizes the risk of long-term morbidity and mortality. This chapter discusses the optimal diagnostic and management strategies employed by paramedics, nurses, and emergency physicians for patients who are diagnosed with SE in the emergency setting, including a review of information from the American College of Emergency Physicians’ 2004 seizure clinical policy.