​An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that measures electrical signals generated in the brain by use of gold-plated electrodes placed on the scalp. It is most often used to investigate ongoing seizure activity, but can also be used to investigate other conditions that may alter brain activity. The EEG does not measure intelligence or mental status and there is no danger of electric shock. The EEG will take approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to complete. The EEG is performed in the Clinical Neurophysiology department, located in D-wing on the main floor, East of the old main entrance.

How to prepare:

1. Please come with clean, dry hair with no hair gel or other hair products. We will NOT have to shave or cut hair for the test.
   **If you are found to have LICE your test will be rescheduled after the lice have been treated.
   
   
2. It is helpful to bring a list of current medications as the technologist will ask what medications you are taking.
   
   
3. It is often beneficial to sleep during the test. Please avoid naps, alcohol and caffeine before the test. Follow physicians instructions for amount to sleep to get the night before if you are coming for a sleep deprived EEG.
   
   
4. Continue taking scheduled medications unless told otherwise by your physician. Continue eating and drinking normally before the test.
   
   
5. Please report to admitting 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. Late arrivals may necessitate rebooking for another date. If you are going to be late due to traffic, road conditions, etc. Please call 306-655-1384 to advise of your situation or rebook if necessary.

Procedure:

The EEG will take approximately 1-1.5 hours to complete. The technologist will begin by measuring the patients head and marking electrode positions with a non-toxic, washable marker. These positions will then be rubbed with an exfoliating cream.

Approximately 27 electrodes will be applied using a conductive cream and cotton balls. The number of wires may vary slightly. The technologist will wrap the patients head in gauze and assist the patient in moving to the bed. A hat with the wires attached may be placed on the head instead.

At various times during the test the patient may be asked to open and close their eyes, answer a few questions, do several minutes of deep breathing and look at flashing lights. For the majority of the test the patient will be asked to lie still and relaxed with their eyes closed. Sleep is encouraged.

The technologist will finish by removing the wires and cleaning the patients head. A shower or bath is recommended to fully remove the cream and marker from the scalp.

The results of the test will be interpreted by a specialist and the final report is sent to the ordering physician. If you require the report to be sent to additional physicians, please notify the technologist at the time of the test.