Getting an EEG at Seattle Children’s Epilepsy Monitoring Unit

Summary

This video provides an informative guide for families preparing for a child's inpatient EEG stay at Seattle Children's Hospital. It explains what an EEG is, the process of placing electrodes, and the steps involved in the monitoring unit. The script highlights the painless procedure, what to expect during the stay, and the roles of various medical staff. It also offers tips on what to bring, how to pass the time, and family involvement, ensuring families feel prepared and supported throughout the process.

Takeaways

• 😀 EEG stands for electroencephalogram, a procedure that records brain electrical activity.
• 😀 The EEG procedure involves attaching small electrodes to the head, which is painless and usually takes about 45 minutes.
• 😀 No needles or pain are involved in the EEG process, requiring only patience and cooperation from the child or teen.
• 😀 The patient will stay in the hospital during their EEG, either for a single night or up to a week.
• 😀 Parents or caregivers should pack comfortable clothing and items to help pass the time, like books, games, or toys.
• 😀 Only battery-operated electronics are allowed during the EEG process.
• 😀 A team, including EEG technologists, nurses, and neurologists, will work together to ensure a smooth procedure and provide care.
• 😀 The EEG procedure involves marking spots on the head, cleaning them, and applying special glue to secure the electrodes, which may feel cold and smelly.
• 😀 If a child cannot stay still during the procedure, a sedated hookup may be necessary for safety.
• 😀 While hooked up to the EEG, the child will need to stay in their room, and family visits are allowed from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• 😀 Once the EEG recording is complete, the electrodes will be removed using a glue remover.

Q & A

What does EEG stand for?

EEG stands for electroencephalogram, which is a test that records the electrical activity of the brain.

How long does it take to place the electrodes during an EEG?

The process of placing the electrodes usually takes about 45 minutes.

Is the procedure of placing the EEG electrodes painful?

No, the procedure is painless. There are no needles involved, and it requires patience and cooperation from the child or teen.

What should patients bring with them to the hospital for their EEG stay?

Patients should bring comfortable clothing (like button-up or zip-up tops), books, games, homework, toys, and any other items to help pass the time. Only battery-operated electronics are allowed.

What happens when the electrodes are placed on the head?

The EEG technician will clean the spots on the head, apply special glue to attach the electrodes, and use a stocking cap to secure them. The glue may feel wet, cold, and has a strong smell.

What is the purpose of the stocking cap used during the EEG?

The stocking cap is used to secure the electrodes in place on the head, ensuring that they stay attached during the monitoring process.

What should be avoided during the EEG recording?

During the EEG recording, phones should be kept in airplane mode, and patients should avoid taking showers while hooked up to the equipment.

How long can patients stay in the hospital for the EEG procedure?

Patients may stay in the hospital anywhere from one night to a whole week, depending on the specific plan for their EEG monitoring.

Who can stay overnight with the patient during the EEG procedure?

Only parents or caregivers are allowed to stay overnight with the patient.

What activities are available for patients while staying at the hospital for the EEG?

The hospital provides various activities such as games, movies, arts and crafts, and other entertainment options to help patients stay busy and pass the time.