Judy Croteau, neurophysiology technologist, monitors video feeds and EEG signals for signs of patient seizures.

That’s because the patients, who were previously confined to their rooms by the limitations of special cameras and sensors that monitor them for seizure activity, can now venture to the unit’s playroom, where an additional camera has been connected to the monitoring system. The Long Term Epilepsy Monitoring Unit, nursing staff and Child Life Services department worked closely together to make the project a reality.

With a new, $10,000 network terminal in place, a video camera in the playroom now connects to a computer system that digitally records synchronized video and electroencephalography (EEG) signals, or “electrical brain pictures.”

“You can’t believe how much better these kids feel to get out of the room,” says Faye McNall, MEd, REEGT, clinical manager of the Neurophysiology Lab. “A simple change of
environment can do wonders for their spirits.” Because the kids’ activity level in the playroom environment is similar to conditions at home or school, she says, “you also capture typical seizure events sooner,” promoting quicker recognition and treatment. — CM

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