EEG laboratory

Electroencephalogram (EEG)
Lab

Electroencephalogram (EEG) Lab

UK HealthCare has two EEG labs. One lab is located at UK Albert B. Chandler Hospital Pavilion H while the other lab is located at UK Good Samaritan Hospital.

The electroencephalogram (EEG) is the most common test for the evaluation of seizures and epilepsy. It records the electrical activity of the brain. It is a safe and painless procedure. Usually the EEG is run for 20 to 30 minutes.

The EEG technologist first measures the patient's head so that the electrodes can be placed in the correct position. The electrodes are small disks attached to wires. They help record brain waves. A wax crayon, which is easily washed off, is used to mark the scalp. The technologist scrubs each position on the scalp with a sand-like cream before applying the electrodes. The technologist then applies the electrodes, using a paste that holds them in place for the test.

During the EEG, the technologist will ask patients to open and close their eyes. The technologist may shine flashing lights into the patients eyes (photic stimulation) or ask them to breathe deeply and rapidly (hyperventilation). These provocative methods may induce certain EEG patterns in special populations and help screen for certain types of epilepsy. The patient may fall asleep briefly during a routine EEG.

In some cases, patients are asked by their doctor to stay up the entire night before the EEG is performed. This sleep deprivation can increase the likelihood that abnormal waves will be recorded. If the patient experiences any possible seizure symptoms during the test, he or she should tell the technologist.

Patients who are pregnant or have a medical problem, such as asthma, heart disease or a recent stroke, should tell the EEG technologist at the start of the EEG.

Obtaining an EEG in certain populations or young children can pose significant challenges. For babies, it is helpful to perform the EEG around nap time, preferably after feeding. Electrodes can be applied while the mother holds the child; a bottle may help to calm the baby.

Map & Directions

Because there are numerous ways to get to the EEG lab from within the hospital, we cannot offer a map from every area. This map will get you from the entrance of Pavilion H to the lab. Once you reach the elevator marked on the map, take it to the basement and the lab will be the first door on the right. Below the map are step-by-step instructions to get you there.

 

 

View or print Chandler first floor map (PDF, 123 KB)
EEG map
  1. Beginning at the entrance of Pavilion H, go through the revolving doors and go straight down the hall.
  2. Turn right at the registration desk and continue down the hall.
  3. Once you have reached the end of the hall, turn left and an elevator will be at the end of the hall.
  4. Take the elevator or steps to the basement level.
  5. Once you are on the basement level, the EEG lab will be the first door on the right.
  6. Go through the doors and the receptionist will assist you.