EEG Instructions
Your physician has ordered an EEG in the Neurophysiology Lab at Children's at Egleston. An EEG is performed by placing wires, called electrodes, on the head, and recording the electricity made by the brain. The preparation and performance of the EEG often allows children to go to sleep naturally during an EEG. Sleep is desired during an EEG to check the sleeping and waking brain electricity. If a child can not go to sleep during an EEG, medication may be needed to help your child sleep. This may require scheduling a second EEG test with specific orders for sedation for sleep. Please follow the instructions listed below to have the best chance to obtain a sleep EEG as safely as possible.
- Please keep your child up 1-2 hours later than usual the night before the test and get them up 1-2 hours earlier than usual the morning of the test (or whatever it takes to make you child tired enough to go to sleep when they come in for the EEG).
- Do Not allow the patient to take a nap prior to the test. If the patient is 6 months or younger, Do Not let them nap for 2-4 hours prior to the test if possible.
- Most EEG studies are performed without sedation. Please bring a bottle of formula if your child is receiving a bottle. If sedation is necessary, an H&P from the ordering physician within 30 days of the test is necessary and specific instructions will be given to the family when the test is scheduled.
- Please be sure your child's hair is clean and dry without mousse, hair spray, gel or oily dressing.
- If the EEG is at the Hospital, check in with OUTPATIENT ADMISSIONS 15 to 30 minutes before your appointment time on the first floor of Egleston Children's Hospital. If the EEG will be performed in a satellite Lab check in at the Registration Desk.
- Please bring a list of any medications your child is taking with you.
After the test is performed it will be interpreted by one of the Emory Pediatric Neurologists. The results will be sent to the ordering physician in 24 to 48 hours. The technologists are unable to provide you with results. If the neurologist interpreting the EEG sees unexpected abnormalities your physician will be notified. If you cannot make your appointment or need to reschedule please contact the: Neurophysiology Lab at 404-785-6065.
