Reflex anoxic seizures (RAS) present with a transient loss of consciousness and are triggered by an unexpected stimuli. These are paroxysmal, short-lived episodes of pronounced bradycardia or transient asystole; the episodes are self-limiting, lasting between 15 seconds and 1 minute. Nurses play an important role in eliciting the history and providing support to parents following the diagnosis. This article addresses the epidemiology and pathophysiology of RAS, with suggestions for management. An illustrative case study is included to highlight some of the challenges that health professionals working in different clinical set-ups are likely to come across while managing a child with RAS.

Mary Grace Fenton-Jones - Foundation Trainee Year 2, Royal United Hospital, Bath

Nagendra Kumar Pasupulety Venkata - Consultant Paediatrician with interest in Cardiology, Royal Devon & Exeter Hospital

Penny Smith - Paediatric Epilepsy Nurse Specialist, Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital

Trudie C Lobban - Founder and CEO, Syncope Trust And Reflex anoxic Seizures group (STARS), and Arrhythmia Alliance

Siba Prosad Paul - Consultant Paediatrician, Torbay Hospital, Torquay