https://www.gosh.nhs.uk/conditions-and-treatments/procedures-and-treatments/brainstem-auditory-evoked-potentials-baep/
Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials (BAEP) test
This page from Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) explains the procedure for the Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials (BAEP) test and what to expect when your child has one.
The brain works by a series of nerve impulses, which cause electrical signals within the brain. When a part of the body is stimulated, for instance, the eyes by a flashing light, or the ears by a clicking sound, the brain responds to this stimulation. This response is called an ‘evoked potential’.
The electrical signals within the brain (also called brainwaves) can be recorded through the scalp. The brain’s responses to those are often very small, but can be recorded using special techniques.
Brainstem Auditory Evoked Potentials (BAEP) tests look at the pathway from the ear to the part of brain that processes sound.
Getting your appointment letter
If you are unable to keep this appointment, please inform the department as soon as possible beforehand. Sometimes, we can offer the appointment to another child on the waiting list.
As so many children and young people need to use our services, we have had to introduce a policy where if a child cancels or does not attend two appointments in a row, we will inform their GOSH consultant and close their referral.
Important note
The person bringing your child to the BAEP should have ‘Parental Responsibility’ for them. Parental Responsibility refers to the individual who has legal rights, responsibilities, duties, power and authority to make decisions for a child. If the person bringing your child does not have Parental Responsibility, we may have to cancel the test.
Getting ready for the test
It is helpful if you make sure that your child’s hair is clean before the test, with no mousse, gel, oil or hairspray. If your child is taking medicines, you should continue to give them as normal.
If you have other children, it is better if they could be looked after at home or by another adult if they come with you. We are unable to supervise them during the test.
The day of the test
Your child will have a BAEP in the Department of Clinical Neurophysiology which is on Level 4, Southwood Building.
Once you are in the Department, check in with reception and soon there will be a Clinical Physiologist (CP) present who will confirm your and your child’s details and take you to the recording room. They will explain in more detail how the test will take place, discussing any worries you may have.
Students and trainees
As we are a teaching hospital, on occasion, we might ask you if you would agree for a trainee to perform the test under direct or indirect supervision. Sometimes, other healthcare professionals or students might ask to observe the test as well. Refusing this will not affect your child’s treatment.
What does the test involve?
The CP will attach small silver discs (electrodes) to certain points on your child’s head using a soft paste. Sometimes, they will measure your child’s head beforehand and mark the points with a soft pencil before attaching the electrodes.
As each electrode is attached, the CP will clean the area of the scalp with a cotton bud and some cream. This does not hurt but some children do not like it. While all the electrodes are being applied, your child can sit on a chair, the bed or your lap, and can play with toys – we have many toys in the department but feel free to bring your child’s own favourite book, toy, or comforter.
Once all electrodes are in place, we will put headphones over your child’s ears – if your child is not used to wearing headphones, you can prepare for the test with games as described on this information sheet.
We will stimulate one ear at a time by playing a clicking sound. As this happens, the brain responds to the stimulation and this is recorded as brainwaves.
Usually, we repeat each stimulus a number of times so that plenty of responses are recorded and averaged out to show how the auditory (hearing) nerve pathways are working.
How long does the test last?
The length of the test depends on how much a child cooperates and how much information is needed. We usually allow up to an hour for the whole test to be completed.
Are there any risks?
No, the BAEP test is very safe. There is no damage to the ears from the clicking sounds.
After the test
The CP will remove the electrodes from your child’s head. This will not hurt as the paste stays soft and is easy to remove. They will also clean your child’s hair but it may feel a bit sticky to the touch until you wash it. Once all the electrodes have been removed, you will be free to go if no other tests or appointments have been planned.
Getting the results
You will not be given the results during the appointment. The team will analyse the results and write a detailed report of the test results. We will send this to your child’s consultant in time for their next appointment.