Neurology
Clinical Services
Electroencephalogram (EEG)
Preparation for an EEG
The most important part of preparation for your EEG is sleep
deprivation. You should get less than half your normal sleep
the night before the test because we record a portion of
your EEG during natural sleep. Some patients must stay awake
all
night. Do not sleep during the ride to the hospital.
If you know you will be unable to fall asleep naturally during
the EEG, let us know in advance so we can arrange to administer
a mild sedative.
If you are scheduled for a carotid baseline,
you may have a full night's sleep. You are not given sedation.
In addition, you should:
-
Plan on two hours for the EEG.
-
Wash your hair either the
night before or the morning of the EEG. Do not use grease,
hair spray, oils or conditioners.
-
Eat a normal meal at your
usual mealtime before the test. Avoid caffeine coffee, tea,
chocolate, soft drinks, and alcohol
for 24 hours prior to the test.
-
Take your daily medications as prescribed
by your physician.
-
Do not drive to your EEG. Bring someone
who can drive you home. It is unsafe for you to drive a vehicle
for several
hours after the test because you will be sleep deprived and may have been
given sedation. If you take public transportation
you should not travel alone.
-
Please do not bring children. If your child is having
the test, do not bring other children. We do not have facilities
for unattended children.
