How to Improve Evoked Potential Recordings

Eclipse Support

Always use an abrasive preparation gel (e.g., NuPrep) to ensure that the top layer of skin (epidermis) is cleaned and oil is removed. The skin may become a little red after an appropriate preparation, and you should aim to get impedances below 3kOhm.Note: Be careful not to damage the skin.

Some clinicians use only alcohol wipes/pads to remove vernix prior to ABR recording on neonates (age 0-3 months). A disinfectant agent such as alcohol can also be used for preparing the skin of neonates.

Remove any oil/lotion/vernix from the contact point on patient’s head. Wipe all preparation gel off with an alcohol wipe/pad or a soft dry non-stick cloth (e.g., gauze).

For sensitive/allergic skin, it may be best to use only a soft dry cloth since alcohol can dry out the skin. If the patient suffers from any known allergies e.g., perfume, pay extra attention to the use of disinfectant agents Since alcohol may take time to dry, impedances may be slightly higher when using alcohol. Make sure that the alcohol is completely dry before applying conductive gel and electrodes Some clinicians prefer not to use alcohol pads/disinfectant agents, but remove the preparation gel with a dry non-stick cloth (e.g., gauze) If the patient’s skin is dry or you are obtaining high impedances, apply a small amount of conductive gel/paste to the skin prior to connecting the surface electrode. This will help to rehydrate the skin and to lower impedances

For sensitive/allergic skin, it may be best to use only a soft dry cloth since alcohol can dry out the skin. If the patient suffers from any known allergies e.g., perfume, pay extra attention to the use of disinfectant agents

Since alcohol may take time to dry, impedances may be slightly higher when using alcohol. Make sure that the alcohol is completely dry before applying conductive gel and electrodes

Some clinicians prefer not to use alcohol pads/disinfectant agents, but remove the preparation gel with a dry non-stick cloth (e.g., gauze)

If the patient’s skin is dry or you are obtaining high impedances, apply a small amount of conductive gel/paste to the skin prior to connecting the surface electrode. This will help to rehydrate the skin and to lower impedances