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Status epilepticus — DIPIMC MCQ

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ModerateMedical EmergenciesStatus epilepticusDIPIMCDipIMC

An adult is found seizing in the street. The generalised convulsion has lasted more than five minutes and there is no intravenous access.

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: E — Buccal midazolam 10 mg

Explanation lettering: B = shown as A · D = shown as B · A = shown as D

A convulsion lasting more than five minutes is treated as status epilepticus, and when there is no intravenous access the first-line benzodiazepine is buccal midazolam (or intramuscular midazolam). Intravenous lorazepam (A) requires the access that is unavailable here. A second benzodiazepine dose can be given after ten minutes before escalating to second-line agents.

Reference: JRCALC Clinical Guidelines; NICE epilepsy guidance