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An electroencephalogram (EEG) is an essential tool for studying the brain's electrical activity. Despite the development of more advanced imaging techniques, EEG remains an essential paraclinical tool for seizure evaluation. This activity represents an overview of EEG testing, including the techniques, indications, contraindications, and clinical significance. It also highlights the role of the interprofessional team in evaluating and performing EEG. Objectives: Identify the indications of the electroencephalogram. Evaluate the technique of electroencephalogram. Determine the clinical significance of the electroencephalogram. Communicate the role of the interprofessional team in evaluating and performing electroencephalogram. Access free multiple choice questions on this topic.
An electroencephalogram (EEG) is an essential tool that studies the brain's electrical activity. Despite developing more advanced imaging techniques, EEG remains the essential paraclinical tool for seizure evaluation. It is primarily used to assess seizures and conditions that may mimic seizures. It is also useful to classify seizure types, assess comatose patients in the intensive care unit, and evaluate encephalopathies, among other indications. The electrical properties of the brain were first discovered by an English scientist, Richard Caton, in 1875, and about 50 years later, the German psychiatrist Hans Berger recorded the first human EEG.[1][2]
Unexpected complications can occur if due diligence is not performed while screening patients before performing the activation or provocative procedures like hyperventilation in certain individuals, as mentioned previously. Long-term EEG monitoring in epilepsy monitoring units and intensive care units is associated with skin injury, and appropriate care needs to be provided.[43]
An interprofessional team is essential for managing patients who require a diagnostic EEG. A team of well-trained EEG technicians, nurses, clinical neurophysiologists, and neurologists is required to appropriately screen the patients and ensure a proper test is performed safely and interpreted correctly based on guidelines, thus facilitating the best treatment decision to be made by the treating providers.[46] The EEG interpreting physicians should be board-certified and follow the guidelines provided by the appropriate clinical neurophysiology society for EEG reporting.[47][48]