Competency: 11

Details

Perform evoked potentials (visual, auditory and somatosensory) using a range of stimulators

Considerations

• Local SOP for evoked potential investigations
• Principles of derivation and electrode placement used for evoked potentials (visual, auditory and somatosensory)
• The importance of electrode impedance and its effects
• Correct machine, recording and stimulus parameters
• The importance of patient positioning and compliance
• The principle and effects of limb temperature
• Positioning and use of correct stimulators (visual, auditory and somatosensory)
• Requirements and principles of recording and monitoring evoked potentials, including the monitoring of technical quality of raw data and identifying and eliminating biological and non-biological artefacts
• The importance of the independent testing of right and left (eye, ear and limb)
• The importance of acquiring sufficient samples and checking for reproducibility
• Appropriate waveform marking to published nomenclature
• Importance of continued information and reassurance for the patient

Relevant learning outcomes