Ambulatory EEG for Children
The consultant you have just seen has sent a request for your child to have an ambulatory EEG test in the Clinical Neurophysiology Department at Dorset County Hospital. Appointments occur on at least two to three consecutive days. If you cannot attend please telephone us on 01305 255255.
Patient information sheet – please complete and bring to your appointment
| Child’s name: Address: Date of birth: Telephone number: GP: Known medical conditions: Known allergies: | Current medication Date of last event (if applicable): Note: Further information may be needed during the appointment including: – Your child’s medical history – When the event (s) started – Description of event (s) – Frequency of event (s) |
| Next of Kin name: Parent / guardian: (Specify) address: Telephone number: | Attached test description (below) has been read: YES/NO This leaflet, gives information and advice relevant to the test. It is important that you read it before attending your appointment. |
| Escort details Name: Relationship (for example parent/guardian): | Consent A parent or legal guardian should accompany the child to confirm consent. Escorts We understand that you may wish to bring a family member/advocate to the appointment for support. We are happy to accommodate where appropriate, and will confirm that you are happy for that person to be present as we may need to discuss medical history. However In the interest of the test we only permit one additional person into the recording room. It is not advisable to bring children to the appointment. |
What is an ambulatory EEG?
It is a 24 to 48 hour recording of the brain’s naturally occurring electrical activity using wires on the head connected to a small recorder that you take home. It involves two or three trips to the hospital.
First appointment (all tests)
Leads are attached to your child’s head with special glue and then connected to a recorder worn in a little bag or rucksack. The recorder may also be hung on a pushchair or pram. Toddlers and infants also wear a soft net cap to cover the leads and discourage touching. Recording begins. The appointment can be at least 60 to 90 minutes.
Second appointment (48hr test only)
Leads are checked, batteries changed and recording continues. The appointment can be 30 to 45 minutes.
Last appointment (all tests)
Recording finishes and leads are removed. The appointment can be up to 45 minutes.
What should we do before we come?
- Your child’s hair should be freshly washed and dried and free from any gel, oil or hairspray
- Try to dress your child in clothes that unbutton at the front which are easier to take off at night
- Do not stop any medication prescribed by your child’s doctor unless you have been told to do so
- Give your child any meals as usual
- Some children like to bring a hat to wear over the leads.
Will it hurt?
No, only a little gentle rubbing during preparation but there is nothing to feel from the test itself. If leads have been on the skin for a prolonged period, the scalp may occasionally be a little tender afterwards.
What must we do during recording?
You will be given a diary to record your child’s activities and details of any attacks or symptoms. Aim for as normal a day as possible, while watching closely for attacks.
What should my child avoid doing?
- Avoid touching the head or electrodes.
- Your child should not bathe, shower, swim or get the head or electrodes wet in any way.
- Avoid sporting-type activities
- Avoid chewing gum, using an electric blanket or using a mobile phone.
Can my child sleep with it on?
Yes, we will discuss this with you when you come.
How do you remove the leads?
We use a mild solvent called Mavidon to soften and remove the glue without irritating the skin.
Mavidon solvent washes out with shampoo or soap but will discolour or dissolve some plastic and painted materials such as plastic glasses and hearing aids. We suggest you take these precautions when your child’s leads are removed:
- Try not to let your child touch their hair and then rub their eyes or touch any other items before you have washed their hands and hair
- Wash your child’s hair as soon as you return home.
Can we travel on public transport?
Yes, but have your appointment letter with you. Leads may not be fully hidden and due to current national security awareness you may need to tell transport staff your child is having a medical test. On buses, show the letter to the driver. Train companies advise you to phone the local station beforehand so they can advise staff.
When will we get the results?
The consultant who referred your child receives the results in three to four weeks.
Contact us
Please phone the department on 01305 255255 if you have any further questions.
About this leaflet
Author: Monica Freeman, Claire Bracey
Written: July 2022
Approved: July 2022
Review date: 2025
Edition: v1
If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk
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