EEG

Welcome to the Children's Mercy Neurophysiology Lab where patients come here
for a test that records the electrical signals of the brain called an EEG. The patient may bring a favorite stuffed animal or blanket to make them feel more comfortable. To ensure a quality test, please follow the sleep instructions given when making the appointment. It is also important to wash your hair the morning of or night before the test, and do not use styling products or place braids. When you arrive for your appointment first, you'll check in with security and anyone over the age of 18 will need a photo ID. The officer will give you directions to the Neurophysiology Lab located on the first floor in the green zone.
When you arrive in the Neurophysiology Lab you'll check in at the front desk and an EEG technologist will then take you to the room where your test will be done. The EEG tech will start off by asking a few questions about you and your health.
First the technologist will mark and measure your head with a crayon or marker. Next each mark will be cleaned with a cotton swab and special soap. This might feel cold, tickly, and slightly scratchy. This is done so your scalp is very clean, and we can make clear recordings of your brain activity. It is then time to apply the electrodes. An electrode is a circular metal disc that is attached to a colorful wire. Each electrode will have a little bit of white paste underneath it and a piece of gauze with some glue will go on top of each electrode like a tiny blanket to hold it in place. The EEG technologist will then use an air hose to dry the glue. This part will feel cold and windy and has a noticeable smell. There are 27 electrodes total. The EEG technologists will then make a ponytail out of the wires and wrap your head with a long piece of gauze to help keep everything in place. Once the test is started there will be a camera and microphone that will be recording the whole time. The EEG technologist will have you open and close your eyes first then it's time for a long awaited nap. You'll get to sleep for 10 to 20 minutes depending upon your age and how quickly you fall asleep. When you wake up you might be asked to do a few different tests. One test involves a series of flashing lights, the other test is a deep breathing exercise where you'll blow on a pinwheel for three minutes. You will then be asked a few questions. At the end of the test an EEG technologist will take off the electrodes with a special solution.