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. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2013 Jul 8.
Published in final edited form as: Neurodiagn J. 2012 Dec;52(4):333–348.

Table 1.

Sample questions to consider during pre-appointment screenings.

Child Communication: Child Personality: Medical Information for EEG: Medical Information for PSG:
  • Is the child verbal? If not, does he use a communication device? If so, will he be bringing his device to the lab? Does the child communicate via sign language?

  • What is her comprehension level?

  • Does the child prefer verbal explanations or instructions? If not, does he prefer visual prompting?

  • Will I need to adapt my typical communication style for this child?

  • Is the child hyperactive? If so, what are calming activities for him?

  • Does the child have sensory sensitivities? Is she sensitive to touch, and if so, on what parts of her body? Is she more comfortable with firmer or lighter touch? Is he sensitive to certain (i.e. grainy, sticky) textures? Is the child sensitive to certain sounds or sudden movements? How do the caregivers help the child cope with these sensory sensitivities at home?

  • Is the child aggressive? Is it likely that he will try to hit or bite me? Does the child engage in self-injurious behaviors?

  • Is she anxious in new surroundings or with medical procedures? What has been effective for minimizing anxiety during previous medical procedures or doctor visits?

  • What things are comforting to this child? What are some of the child’s favorite movies, toys, books, etc.? Can these things be brought to the lab?

  • What strategies have been successful or unsuccessful for the child during past procedures?

  • Does the child nap? If so, when? Is it likely that he will be able to nap in the lab?

  • Is it likely that the child will need additional preparation before the procedure?

  • What is the purpose of this study? Has the child had a previous EEG?

  • What type of spells are under investigation? How frequent are the child’s spells? What are the triggers for the child’s spells? When are the spells most likely to occur?

  • What is/are the medical diagnosis/diagnoses?

  • What is the purpose of this study? Has the child had a previous PSG?

  • Is the main concern the child’s breathing? Or is it the child’s behavior during sleep? Is it likely that the child will need a full EEG?

  • What is/are the medical diagnosis/diagnoses?