Routine EEG for Adults
The consultant you have seen has sent a request for you to have an EEG test in the Clinical Neurophysiology Department at Dorset County Hospital. If you cannot attend please telephone us on 01305 255255.
Patient information sheet – please complete and bring to your appointment
| Patient’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 medical history – When the event (s) started – Description of event (s) – Frequency of event (s) |
| Next of Kin name: Partner / relative: (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 partner/relative): | 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 EEG?
An EEG, or electroencephalogram, is a recording of the naturally occurring electrical activity of the brain. The appointment takes about 60 minutes. The test is also recorded on digital video.
What should I do before I come?
- Please arrive with your hair freshly washed and dried, and free from all hair products such as gel, oil or hair spray. Bring a comb if you like
- Continue to take any prescribed medication unless you have been specifically told to stop
- Meals can be taken as usual
- If you like you can bring a hat to wear home afterwards.
What happens during the test?
Your head is measured and marked with a pencil that washes off. You are usually asked to sit on a couch and then about 23 wires are applied to your scalp using a water-soluble paste. You only feel a little gentle rubbing on your head. Your heart beat may also be recorded using leads on your neck or arms.
During the EEG recording, you are asked to relax with your eyes closed for most of the time while a computer records your brainwave activity for about 20 minutes. You do not feel anything at all. The more you relax the clearer the reading. You may be asked to open and close your eyes. With your consent we may also ask you to breathe deeply for three minutes and may show you a flashing light.
Afterwards, we remove all the wires, wipe off any paste and you can tidy your hair. Your head may feel slightly sticky, but any paste residue washes out easily. Some people prefer to bring a hat to wear home.
Why do you record a video?
A digital video is recorded for technical reasons and to aid interpretation. Only sections that aid interpretation are kept. You will be asked for consent for us to record the video.
Why are deep breathing and flashing lights used?
The breathing exercise and flashing lights may add extra diagnostic information for some people.
Why do you need consent?
We like you to sign a consent form to confirm your agreement for the deep breathing and flashing lights because of a very small risk of triggering seizures in some people. Although the risk is very small, it may have implications if you hold a driving licence. We also explain that occasionally, clips of the video taken during your test are stored confidentially, and we are required to confirm that we have explained how and why we do this.
Are there any after effects?
There are no after effects from recording an EEG. If you have any concerns after the test you should seek advice from your consultant.
When will I get my results?
Results are sent to the consultant who referred you for the test. This usually takes two to three 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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