EEG-Related Deep Tissue Injuries in Critically Ill Pediatric Patients: A Quality Improvement Project

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at the Cohen Children's Medical Center in New York have conducted a quality improvement project to reduce EEG-related deep tissue injuries in critically ill pediatric patients. The study found that adherence to expert guidelines and tailored skin care protocols can reduce the risk of electrode-related skin injuries. The project involved reviewing baseline data from 2336 inpatient video EEGs performed from January 2022 to December 2024 and implementing interventions to improve skin safety during electrode placement.

Key Takeaways:

  • EEG-related deep tissue injuries are a common complication of prolonged EEG monitoring in critically ill pediatric patients.
  • The frequency of scalp injuries decreased from 0.30% in 2022 to 0% in 2024 after implementing the quality improvement protocol.
  • Five critically ill infants developed deep tissue injuries (DTIs) related to EEG electrodes, with most injuries occurring over the occipital region.
  • The skin's sensitivity to microcirculatory changes can provide valuable insights into the patient's overall tissue perfusion.
  • Electrode placement and monitoring parameters can be adjusted to reduce the risk of electrode-related skin injuries.
  • The quality improvement project implemented interventions to improve skin safety during electrode placement, including skin care protocols focused on skin preparation, electrode application, and monitoring parameters.

Statistics:

  • 2336 inpatient video EEGs were performed from January 2022 to December 2024.
  • 5 critically ill infants developed deep tissue injuries (DTIs) related to EEG electrodes.
  • The frequency of scalp injuries decreased from 0.30% in 2022 to 0% in 2024 after implementing the quality improvement protocol.
  • 100% of the scalp injuries occurred in conditions with known hypoperfusion.

Sources:

  • "EEG-related deep tissue injuries in critically ill pediatric patients: A single institution quality improvement project".
  • Epileptic Disorders, 2025. Epileptic Disorders can be contacted at: Wiley, 111 River St, Hoboken 07030-5774, NJ, USA.
  • Springer (www.springer.com)
  • Wiley (www.springer.com; Epileptic Disorders - www.springerlink.com/content/1950-6945/)
  • Health & Medicine Week. September 19, 2025; p 1344.