An integral part of the management of a first febrile seizure is reassurance of the family.
A first seizure can be a terrifying experience for many parents, who may think initially that their child is dying.
The challenge is to help the family deal with the emotional trauma and to appreciate the excellence of the prognosis.
It is important for the family to understand that there is no increased risk of intellectual delay or school difficulties and that febrile seizures less than 30 minutes in duration do not result in brain damage.
Similarly, the family should appreciate the low risk of developing epilepsy and the lack of benefit in using antiepileptic drug treatment to lower that risk.
Finally, the family should understand that EEG and neuroimaging are of little value.