To all student nurses about to start placement, please take time to learn about functional neurological disorders ( #FND). They are so common but rarely known about. You could really make a difference. /1

Many people present with stroke-like symptoms, epilepsy symptoms or MS. Symptoms include seizures, blackouts, swallowing problems, paralysis, blackouts, limb weakness, speech problems, mobility problems, memory problems, facial spasms and more. May have one or more symptom /2

Tests will usually appear normal such as CT scans, blood work etc. However that does not mean the person isn't experiencing the symptoms. The symptoms are very real and very upsetting. They will need to feel believed and reassured. /3

Treatment is not set in stone and patients will need a multi-disciplinary approach e.g. medication if indicated, CBT, speech and language therapy, physical therapy, and so so. There is no one size fits all approach. /4

Filming the symptoms (with consent) and sending them for a neurological consult can be extremely valuable if there are long waiting times. For example, once the patient is safe, filming their seizure can enable to specialist to identify functional seizures. /5

Lastly, the most important thing is to know that just because you don't understand something doesn't mean it isn't real. Listen to the patient, don't make assumptions, be kind! /6

Here is some more information about FND to get you started: https://www.neurosymptoms.org/welcome/4594357992 https://fndhope.org/  https://www.fndaction.org.uk/  http://www.nonepilepticattackdisorder.org.uk/non-epileptic-attack-disorder/ and follow @FndPortal @FndRecovery @FNDHopeUK @jonstoneneuro @FNDAction

Please feel free to add to this thread. /7