ELECTROENCEPHALOGRAPHIC (EEG) /ELECTRONEURODIAGNOSTIC (END)TECHNOLOGIST

WHAT IS AN EEG/END TECHNOLOGIST?

An electroencephalographic (EEG) technologist is skilled in the use of machinery which records electrical activity of the brain.  Neurologists and other physicians analyze the machine printouts to diagnose brain diseases and head injuries.  A patient’s vital functions can also be monitored with an EEG machine.  This feature is useful during organ transplants to determine the exact time when the organ stops functioning.  An EEG technologist records brain activity by placing small electrodes on the patient’s scalp, connecting them to the machine and setting the machine’s controls to record brain activity.  The entire process is painless to the patient, but technologists must still carefully monitor the patient’s behavior.

An  electroneurodiagnostic (END) technologist uses an EEG machine to record the electrical impulses transmitted by the brain and nervous system. The range of tests performed by an electroneurodiagnostic (END) technologist is broader than those performed by an EEG technologist but includes many of the same tests.

HOW DO I BECOME AN EEG/END TECHNOLOGIST?

While in high school, take course work in algebra, English, biology, chemistry, electricity and electronics, and health.  High school graduation or its equivalency (GED) is necessary to become an EEG/END technologist.  Training is available both on-the-job through an apprenticeship program, or through formal vocational technical training.  Vo-tech training varies from 1 to 2 years, and concludes with a certificate or an associate degree.  Those who have successfully completed their on-the-job training or formal classroom training, and who have completed their clinical job experience, are qualified to take an examination that will certify them as a registered EEG/END technologist.

WHAT WILL I LEARN IN SCHOOL?

Training in a hospital-based program or vocational technical school will prepare you for operating and maintaining an electroneurodiagnostic (END) machine.  You will also learn how to evaluate EEG printouts, how to detect common mental disorders you might encounter in patients, how to take medical histories, as well as learn the skills involved with patient care.  Courses may include neurology, anatomy, electronics, instrumentation, and physiology.

LIFE AFTER GRADUATION

The employment picture looks excellent for EEG/END technologists through the next decade.  The field is growing much faster than the average for all occupations.

EEG/END technologists work in neurology departments in hospitals and clinics.  A few work in neurologists’ and neurosurgeons’ offices.  Highly experienced EEG/END technologists may work in a research lab or become members of a highly specialized  neurosurgical team.

PROFESSIONAL INFORMATION SOURCES:

American Society of Electroneurodiagnostic Technology
402 Kansas City, MO 64131
(816) 931- 1120
www.aset.org