It may be difficult or impossible to obtain a valid history in the emergency. Additional time in the observation unit (OU) may be needed to determine the etiology of the event, whether a seizure or not.

In the OU, there is time for obtain such information, do a diagnostic workup to determine the etiology of the event, whether a seizure or not and if a seizure, determine the precipitating factors and treat them, repeat vital signs and neurologic checks, observe for any recurrent seizures or monitoring if syncope and dysrhythmias are a consideration. If this was a seizure, evaluation can be done, which may involve testing. In a patient with a known seizure disorder, anticonvulsants may be administered, if needed. Precipitating factors, such as infections or electrolyte abnormalities, known to trigger seizures can be treated in the OU. Dizziness has an extensive differntial