Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU)

The North Cypress Medical Center Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) is committed to helping those suffering from seizure disorders lead a normal, quality life. Staffed with the area’s leading epilepsy specialists, specially trained nurses and technicians, we evaluate and treat both pediatric and adult patients. The North Cypress EMU is equipped with the latest in state-of-the-art epilepsy evaluation and monitoring equipment.

What Can I Expect if Admitted to the EMU?

Once an order is received from your neurologist, you will be contacted to schedule admission to the hospital. Your length of stay in the EMU can range from 3-5 days and will be determined by the type and amount of testing needed, based on your physician’s course of evaluation. Upon admission, a nurse and a technician will assess your individual needs and answer any additional questions you have about your stay. While in the EMU you will be evaluated through an Electroencephalogram (EEG) and Video Monitoring. These record both your brain waves and physical actions should a seizure occur.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

An EEG is a painless test that records brain waves using highly sensitive monitoring equipment. By mea­suring the changes in the brain’s activity, EEGs can evaluate and help diagnose possible conditions such as epilepsy, seizure disorders, stroke, brain tumors, head trauma, headaches, and other disorders of the neurological system and nervous system. To begin the evaluation process through (EEG), electrodes, which are connected to thin wires, are painlessly applied to the scalp using a special adhesive. The wires are then connected to a small box which communicates brain activity to the EEG’s monitoring equipment and computer software. During the test, various vi­sual stimuli may be introduced, such as bright lights to observe the brain’s reaction.
AirEEG™

North Cypress also utilizes AirEEG™, a technology that allows wireless communication between the pa­tient and computer software. This technology allows patients to travel freely to certain areas around the patient floor, without being confined to their room. The device that communicates EEG information from the individual to the monitoring equipment is simply tucked into a small backpack and taken with the patient.

Video Monitoring

Each EMU patient room is equipped with a video camera that is monitored by technician 24-hours a day. This important component allows the physician to view what the seizures look like and compare them to the activity shown by the EEG. Cameras are also located outside of the patient rooms so there is con­tinuous monitoring while patients are elsewhere on the unit. When a moment of privacy is needed, the technician can be easily notified by in-room intercom and the camera will be pointed away temporarily.

Treating our Pediatric Patients

We recognize that a hospital can be a scary place for children, especially when undergoing testing proce­dures. While hospitalized, we require that a parent or designated adult remain present during all evalu­ations for patients under the age of 18. We also ask that a parent stay in the room overnight with any child under 18 years of age. For your convenience, a sleeper sofa is available in all rooms. We encour­age parents to bring activities to keep their children entertained during this time. The hospital also pro­vides a limited supply of games and activities.
Following your Stay

A follow-up appointment should be set with your neurologist after your stay to review the findings. You will schedule that directly with his or her office.

 

For more information about the Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, call us at 832-912-3873.