Pediatric Dose Optimization for Seizures in EMS (Pedi-DOSE)
Study on Dosing for Seizure Treatment in Children
Gregory Faris
Primary Investigator
Brief description of study
Researchers will collect information about children ages 6 months to 13 years, who Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services (EMS) transports to IU Health Riley Hospital for Children for active seizures.
Because it is a time-sensitive condition when Indianapolis Emergency Medical Services (EMS) transports a child to IU Health Riley Hospital for Children, children will get enrolled before parent/guardian permission can be sought.
Detailed description of study
Eligibility of study
You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:
- Conditions: Seizures, Riley
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Age: 6 months - 13 years
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Gender: All
Inclusion Criteria:
- Witnessed by the paramedic to be actively seizing, regardless of seizure type or duration; AND
- Under the care of a paramedic; AND
- Transported by an EMS agency participating in the study
Exclusion Criteria:
- A prior history of a benzodiazepine allergy; OR
- Known or presumed pregnancy; OR
- Severe growth restriction based on the paramedic's subjective assessment
This study investigates how to improve the dosing of a commonly used medication for seizures called midazolam in children during emergencies. Seizures are episodes of uncontrolled electrical activity in the brain, which can be dangerous if they do not stop on their own. The purpose of this study is to optimize the dosing process by using age-based dosing instead of calculations, to ensure children receive the correct dose quickly.
In this study, paramedics from 20 different cities will use new protocols to administer midazolam based on the child's age. This means paramedics will not need to calculate doses, which can save time in emergencies. The study aims to reduce the number of children arriving at the hospital with ongoing seizures, while keeping them safe.
- Who can participate: Children aged 6 months to 13 years who are actively seizing and are under the care of a paramedic transported by a participating EMS agency can join the study. Children with a benzodiazepine allergy, known or presumed pregnancy, or severe growth restriction are not eligible.
- Study details: Participants will receive an age-based dose of midazolam from paramedics during emergency transport. The study involves changing how paramedics choose the dose to avoid calculations.
