How do I get started with a SAM EEG recording?
To get started with a SAM EEG recording, prepare the patient and EEG cap, verify signal quality, perform the eyes-open and eyes-closed recording conditions, and then process the recorded EEG data for reporting.
What do I need to perform a SAM EEG recording?
Before starting, ensure you have:
- A SAM EEG amplifier.
- An EEG cap with sponge inserts.
- Reference and ground electrodes.
- SAM software installed on a Windows computer.
- 0.9% saline solution for preparing the sponge inserts.
Getting Started with a SAM EEG Recording
1. Prepare the Patient and EEG Cap
Before recording:
- Select the correct EEG cap size.
- Moisten all sponge inserts using 0.9% saline solution.
- Insert the sponges into the sponge holders.
- Position the EEG cap correctly on the patient's head.
- Attach the reference and ground electrodes to the ear lobes.
- Ensure the patient is seated comfortably and remains relaxed.
2. Connect the System
Before recording:
- Connect the EEG cap to the amplifier.
- Open the signal quality view in the SAM software.
- Verify that all channels are connected correctly.
3. Check Signal Quality
Review signal quality for all channels before beginning the recording.
- Green indicates good signal quality.
- Yellow indicates moderate signal quality.
- Red indicates poor signal quality.
If signal quality is not stable, address the issue before proceeding.
4. Perform the EEG Recording
The EEG recording consists of two standard resting-state conditions:
- Eyes open
- Eyes closed
During both conditions, the patient should remain relaxed, still, and awake.
5. Monitor Signal Quality
Continue monitoring signal quality throughout the recording.
If signal quality deteriorates, check electrode contact and ensure the patient remains relaxed and minimizes movement.
6. Process the Recording
After the recording is complete:
- The recorded EEG data is processed.
- Recording segments are organized.
- Quantitative measures are calculated.
7. Generate the Report
After processing:
- The recorded EEG data is stored as a .bdf (BioSemi Data Format) file.
- Processed results can be presented in a PDF report.
Notes
- SAM EEG recordings include both eyes-open and eyes-closed recording conditions.
- Signal quality should be verified before and during recording.
- High-quality recordings depend on correct setup, stable electrode contact, and patient cooperation.
- Movement and muscle tension are common sources of recording artifacts.
- The recording should only begin once signal quality is stable.