clinics
Skip to main content

Evoked Potentials (EP)

These tests are the visual evoked potentials (VEP), the brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAER) and the somatosensory evoked potentials (SEP)
VEP

Visual Evoked Potentials (VEP)

This test records the response of the brain’s visual centre to a checkerboard picture or flashing light.

This test checks the visual pathway and ensures that the brain is receiving information about what we see.

Patient handout

Preparation 

  • It is important that your child is awake and alert for this test 
  • Dnot sleep deprive your child
  • Children who wear glasses or contact lenses should wear these during the test
  • All children must have clean, dry hair (no gel, hairspray or oil)

BAER

Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials (BAER)

This test records how long it takes for sound to travel from the ear to the brain.

This test does NOT test how well your child hears.

Earplugs or headphones deliver a clicking sound to each ear.

Patient handout

Preparation

Most children are sedated for this test as it is very important for them to lie still. See instructions for sedation.

Please sleep deprive as well. See instructions for sleep deprivation



SEP

Somatosensory Evoked Potentials (SEP) 

This test checks how well the spinal cord conducts a message from the arms and legs to the brain.

Your child will feel a 'tingling' sensation, or their big toe or thumb might twitch. This does not hurt but may feel uncomfortable.

Patient handout

Preparation

Most children are sedated for this test as it is very important for them to lie still. See instructions for sedation.

Please sleep deprive as well. See instructions for sleep deprivation

Please wear loose clothing or bring shorts and a t-shirt to change into.
 





Tab Heading
SOURCE: Evoked Potentials (EP) ( )
Page printed: . Unofficial document if printed. Please refer to SOURCE for latest information.

Copyright © BC Children's Hospital. All Rights Reserved.

    Copyright © 2024 Provincial Health Services Authority.