To determine the presence and type of epilepsy

To aid in the diagnosis of intracranial lesions

To evaluate brain activity in metabolic disease, head injury, meningitis, encephalitis, and psychological disorders

To help confirm brain death

Make sure that the consent form is signed by the child’s parents or legal guardians.

Note and report all allergies.

Wash and dry the child’s hair to remove hairsprays, creams, or oils.

Withhold tranquilizers, barbiturates, and other sedatives for 24 to 48 hours before the test.

Minimize sleep (4 to 5 hours) the night before the study.

If a sleep EEG is ordered, give a sedative to promote sleep during the test.

Make sure that the child continues to eat and drink before the test because fasting may cause hypoglycemia, which could alter the test results.

Make sure that the child doesn’t drink anything with caffeine on the morning of the test because of caffeine’s stimulating effect.

Reassure the child that he won’t feel anything during the test.

Tell the child that he needs to remain still during the test; any movement will create interference and alter the EEG recording.