First Seizure/New Onset Epilepsy Clinic

As part of the Section of Neurology at Nationwide Children’s, the First Seizure/New Onset Epilepsy Clinic provides family centered care and education to children and families with a first afebrile seizure or new onset epilepsy.

Our multidisciplinary team is comprised of:

• Pediatric Neurologists

• Pediatric Nurse Practitioners

• Child Life Specialists

• Educators from the Epilepsy Foundation

Although the diagnosis of seizure is common in pediatric neurology practice, first presentation is a particularly frightening event for the child and their family members. The heart of our program is our attention to the educational and psychosocial aspects of caring for children and families experiencing a first seizure or a new diagnosis of epilepsy.

Clinic visits will involve a consultation with a pediatric neurologist or pediatric nurse practitioner followed by a one-hour education session.

Parents and children 13 years or older will attend an education session led by the pediatric nurse practitioners, structured around seizure diagnosis, safety, medication and social impact. They will also be joined by an education specialist from the Epilepsy Foundation.

Children ages 6 to 12 years will have an independent session led by the Child Life specialist and an educator from the Epilepsy Foundation in which they will learn about epilepsy through activities. They will also be given an opportunity to explore their feelings and concerns.

Children requiring ongoing care will continue to be followed through the clinic.

Physician Referral Information
Primary care physicians and pediatric specialists can refer children with a first-time afebrile seizure or new onset of epilepsy to the clinic in the following manner:

• Schedule referrals online

• Fax referrals to (614) 722-4000

• Make referrals and schedule by phone at (614) 722-6200