AANA journal
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Recent clinical studies using the bispectral index monitor to predict movement, measure the level of consciousness, and reduce the cost of anesthesia have renewed interest in the use of a monitor to assess the effects of anesthetics on the brain. In 1937, Gibbs described electroencephalographic changes during the administration of general anesthetics. ⋯ The purpose of this article is to provide a historical perspective of the development and use of the processed electroencephalographic monitor. This article also describes studies of clinical usefulness of the bispectral index monitoring device in anesthesia practice today.