Ambulatory EEG with video

Ambulatory EEG with video image

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What is an Ambulatory EEG with video?

An ambulatory EEG records the electrical activity of the brain for a period of 24 – 72 hours. The
aim of the ambulatory EEG is either to try to record a typical ‘attack’ and/or to record your ongoing
brain activity whilst you are awake and asleep. The video will monitor your movements during
an attack or during your sleep.




What to expect during the test

Small metal discs will be glued to your head. These electrodes are attached to a recorder, which
is placed in a small bag for you to take home. You also take home a video camera with
instructions.
You will be asked to return to the department every day to have the data card downloaded, the
electrodes checked and the batteries changed.
During the investigation you will be asked to fill in a diary sheet, you must do this or your test
cannot be reported. Please note that you will not be able to have showers or baths. Afterwards
your hair may by messy with some glue still left in it. We may ask you to do some deep breathing
and look at a flickering light. You should be aware that the flickering lights and/or the deep
breathing may increase the risk of you having one of your attacks/seizures.




Are there any risks?

You will not feel anything from the EEG. The electrodes are wrapped together and covered with
a stretchy bandage to make one cable. It is possible that this lead could wrap around your neck
at night, so we have to warn you of the small risk of strangulation. It is therefore recommended
that you have someone with you during the night. There is also a small risk that the electrodes
could cause sore spots to your head. Please let us know if you are allergic to metal or have
particularly sensitive skin.



How to prepare for the test

 It is essential for you to confirm that you can attend this appointment, within 5 working days,
by calling us on 01905 733532 between 8am – 4pm Monday to Friday. Failure to do so may
result in the appointment being re-allocated.
 If your attack frequency has changed, please phone the department on 01905 760697 as we
may need to alter the length of the investigation.
 Your hair should be clean, dry and free of hair products.
 Please ensure that you wear a top that can be zipped or buttoned at the front. You may also
wish to bring something to cover your head.
 It is advised that you eat and drink as normal.
 Take your medicines as normal. Please bring a list of all your current medications with you.



Additional Information

Unfortunately, we cannot see people who are more than 20 minutes late. It can take a long time to
park, so please give yourself plenty of time to get here.

The Neurophysiology department is located on Level 0 (River Level).

Worcester Royal Hospital is a teaching hospital and there may be students observing or performing
your test.





Where can I find more information?

If you have any queries, please call the Neurophysiology department on 01905 760697.
Further information about the test is available at:
www.ans.uk.org/tests
www.bscn.org.uk







If your symptoms or condition worsens, or if you are concerned about anything,
please call your GP, 111, or 999.

Patient Experience
We know that being admitted to hospital can be a difficult and unsettling time for you
and your loved ones. If you have any questions or concerns, please do speak with a
member of staff on the ward or in the relevant department who will do their best to
answer your questions and reassure you.

Feedback
Feedback is really important and useful to us – it can tell us where we are working well
and where improvements can be made. There are lots of ways you can share your
experience with us including completing our Friends and Family Test – cards are
available and can be posted on all wards, departments and clinics at our hospitals. We
value your comments and feedback and thank you for taking the time to share this with
us.

Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS)
If you have any concerns or questions about your care, we advise you to talk with the
nurse in charge or the department manager in the first instance as they are best placed
to answer any questions or resolve concerns quickly. If the relevant member of staff is
unable to help resolve your concern, you can contact the PALS Team. We offer informal
help, advice or support about any aspect of hospital services & experiences.

Our PALS team will liaise with the various departments in our hospitals on your behalf,
if you feel unable to do so, to resolve your problems and where appropriate refer to
outside help.

If you are still unhappy you can contact the Complaints Department, who can investigate
your concerns. You can make a complaint orally, electronically or in writing and we can
advise and guide you through the complaints procedure.

How to contact PALS:
Telephone Patient Services: 0300 123 1732 or via email at:
wah-tr.PALS@nhs.net

Opening times:
The PALS telephone lines are open Monday to Friday from 8.30am to 4.00pm. Please
be aware that you may need to leave a voicemail message, but we aim to return your
call within one working day.

If you are unable to understand this leaflet, please communicate with a member of staff.