The Journal of neuroscience nursing : journal of the American Association of Neuroscience Nurses
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Computerized EEG (CEEG) monitoring has recently been introduced to intensive care units (ICU). Unlike the intermittent assessment using coma scales, CEEG monitoring provides continuous information about a patients' neurological condition. Patient status can be monitored more accurately with CEEG. ⋯ The goal of continuous CEEG monitoring is to recognize a decline in a patient's condition before physical signs and symptoms are present. The neuroscience nurse participates in the assessment of the EEG recording as well as in evaluating therapy. This article introduces the neuroscience nurse to the basic terminology, rationale for use and clinical application for continuous computerized EEG monitoring.
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The purpose of this study was to test the interrater reliability of the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) when used in assessing neurologically impaired patients. In order to control variables, a videotape was developed of seven patients with different neurological impairments. ⋯ The comparison showed a low disagreement rating and a moderate to high agreement rating demonstrating that this tool has good interrater reliability (p = 0.000). Nurses may use this tool with confidence as one measure of assessment in evaluating neurologically impaired patients.