Electroencephalogram (1787)

For the hospitalized child

What is an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

An EEG is a test to see how the electrical action of your child’s brain is working. It will help diagnose your child’s condition. 

How does an EEG work?

An EEG uses wires, called leads, to pick up tiny electrical impulses in the brain. The EEG tech will measure your child’s scalp and mark it with a washable marker. This helps them know where to put the leads. The leads are put on with a soft paste and liquid glue. The glue or paste may smell bad. A machine blows air on your child’s head to dry the glue. It may sound loud. A wrap may be put on your child’s head to help keep the leads in place.  

What is the most common problem with having an EEG?

It is common for the leads to cause some skin irritation. The skin might look red or have blisters. It can lead to skin breakdown which can be a big problem. Skin breakdown looks like blisters, open areas, or worse wounds. Skin breakdown can cause other problems so it is important to look at the area to check.   

To help prevent this problem, your healthcare team will:

• Look at the head wrap every day to make sure it is not too tight.
• Move the leads at certain times during your child’s stay. 
• Help your child move around to take pressure of the leads.
• Use a special liquid to take off the leads.  

What can I do to help? 

• Tell a member of your healthcare team if your child has had skin irritation from the leads in the past. 
• Do not put any hats or extra items on your child’s head.  
• Distract your child from itching or pulling at the head wrap and leads. 
• Look at your child’s skin after the leads are off.
• Tell a member of your healthcare team if you notice any areas of redness or breakdown on your child’s skin.  
• Work with your health care team on a plan to take care of any skin irritations.