This course identifies the main areas for Electroencephalogram (EEG) recording electrode application  and electrode impedance measurement.

In this course you will look at the internationally accepted way for the placement of EEG recording electrodes, their labels and the anatomical relationship to the underlying regions of the brain. 

There are three main steps in order to apply the EEG recording electrodes accurately.  The patient’s head must first be measured to find the correct position for the electrode according to the anatomical structures of the brain.  The electrodes must then be applied in such a way that they remain stable for the recording.  Measuring the electrical impedance of the electrodes is then done to ensure the best recording capabilities of the electrodes.

The different types of electrodes used to record EEGs and the importance of accurate electrode application is discussed in the ANSA Course ‘Neurophysiology Recording Electrodes’ and ‘Routine EEG Recording Techniques‘ respectively.  

The main point of reference will be taken from a report presented by Jasper in 1957 where an international committee came together to discuss standards for EEG recording techniques.  This may be referred to as The Report in the content to follow.

Report of the Committee on Methods of Clinical Examination in EEG of the International Federation of Societies for EEG and Clinical Neurophysiology.   Jasper 1958, Electroencephalogr. Clin Neurophysiol. V10: p371-375

The Report was republished in 1999 under the Recommendations for the Practice of Clinical Neurophysiology Guidelines of the International Federation of Clinical Physiology (EEG Suppl.52). The ten-twenty electrode system of the International Federation by G.H Klem, H.O. Luders, H.H Jasper and C. Elger. (click to reveal The Report)

The lesson notes for this course will often refer to EEG electrode application, however most of these principles apply to the application of all Neurophysiology recording electrodes.  In general, scalp electrode placements for evoked potentials are based on the ‘Ten Twenty Electrode Placement System’ positions.

A summary of the content is given below:

• Electrode placement using The International 10/20 Electrode Placement System
• Electrode application
• Electrode impedance measurement 

The more specific areas from the ANSA Competency Statements are listed below.

ANSA Inc EEG Competency Statements

Core Knowledge

• Define major anatomical structures and function of the major brain regions
• Explain the measurement of impedance 
• Identify the importance of equal and low impedances in electrode application

Electrode Application 

• Accurately apply electrodes according to The 10/20 Electrode Placement System

Recording

• Identify the appropriate electrode impedance for EEG
  • define the required impedance level for recording
  • measure electrode impedance 
  • identify  and adjust impedance levels when required