Key points about EEG monitoring in a neonatal unit
- an EEG records the electrical activity in your baby’s brain
- your baby may need EEG monitoring if the healthcare team is concerned about seizures
- tiny electrodes record your baby’s brain waves
- alongside other tests, an EEG can help the healthcare team decide if your baby needs medicine or another treatment
- the healthcare team will discuss the results with you
- an EEG does not show your baby’s intelligence or ability to learn
What is EEG monitoring?
An electroencephalogram, or EEG, records the electrical activity produced by the brain. This activity appears as a brain wave pattern on a monitor.
EEG monitoring can help the healthcare team understand how your baby’s brain is working. It can show whether the electrical activity appears normal or abnormal.
See the page on EEGs to learn more about EEG tests in tamariki (children).
Why might my baby need EEG monitoring?
Your baby may have EEG monitoring if the healthcare team is concerned about possible seizures. They may also want more information about how your baby’s brain is working.
Your baby may need EEG monitoring if they:
- had a difficult birth
- have unusual movements
- have changes in their behaviour or awareness
A seizure is a burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain. Signs of seizures in newborn pēpi (babies) are not always obvious. An EEG can give more information.
What happens during EEG monitoring?
Small electrodes record your baby’s brain waves. The health professional will place tiny electrodes on top of your baby’s scalp or just under the skin. The healthcare team will make sure your baby is comfortable throughout.
A health professional will measure your baby’s head and carefully clean their skin. They will then place the electrodes. Leads connect the electrodes to an EEG monitor. The healthcare team can look at the brain wave pattern to check for seizures. Sometimes a neurologist (children’s brain health specialist) will also review the results. This may not happen straightaway.
Your baby may wear earmuffs to reduce noise in the neonatal unit.
What do the EEG results show?
The EEG may give information about your baby’s brain activity. Alongside other tests, it can help the healthcare team decide if your baby needs medicine or another treatment.
An EEG does not show your baby’s intelligence or ability to learn.
Your baby’s healthcare team will discuss the findings with you and explain what they mean.
Supporting your baby during EEG monitoring
It can feel upsetting to see your baby with electrodes in place. The neonatal nurses and doctors will support you and your baby during the monitoring. The healthcare team will make sure your baby is comfortable throughout.
Talk to your baby’s healthcare team if you have any questions or concerns.
Acknowledgements
Adapted from the leaflet: 'Electroencephalography – Brain Wave Monitor. Matatiki, Child & Youth Health, Waitaha Canterbury'.
