ABSTRACT
In this chapter we will discuss and illustrate some pitfalls and caveats encountered during aEEG monitoring in the NICU. The development of new digital monitors, allowing access to the original EEG, has been associated with great improvements, since inspection of the EEG signal is by far the best way of disclosing extracerebral artifact sources as possible causes of unexpected changes in the aEEG trend patterns (see Figure 1.7). As for all EEG recording, careful control of electrode impedance is important in order to avoid pick-up of artifacts. Most aEEG recording equipment provides tools for continuous surveillance of signal quality and impedance. Staff taking care of the patient should be instructed how to detect and interpret high impedances and when to suspect a loose electrode (Figure 3.1).
