Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU)
The Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) is an extension of our comprehensive neuroscience service line here at Lutheran Medical Center, where we have a highly trained and specialized team. Our multidisciplinary approach includes a team of neurologists, epileptologists, neurosurgeons, specialized registered nurses, registered EEG technologists and care management. The multifaceted process includes managing seizure activity, medications, and diagnosis while state -of- the- art continuous video- electroencephalogram technology closely monitors each patient.
Are you a candidate for the EMU?
Seizures can come from genetic dispositions or be triggered by an unpredictable component. If you struggle with uncontrolled seizures or seizure disorder, please connect with your physician and discuss if you might be a candidate for our Epilepsy Monitoring Unit.
What does a seizure look like?
- Shaking or jerking
- Repetitive movements sometimes presented with clapping, lip smacking, and even chewing or grinding.
- Confusion or memory loss
- Gazing off or blank look
- Unusual blinking
- Altered mental status
- Stiffness or bracing unexpectedly
- Incontinence
Treatment Options
Treatment planning is based on the patient's individualized diagnosis and desired outcomes. Our physicians approach each patient case with care. Treatment plans can include adding or removing medications to a regime and an array of surgical approaches and stimulators.
EMU Team
Our multidisciplinary care team is composed of:
- Board certified neurologists,
- Epileptologists,
- Neurosurgeons,
- Neurointensivists,
- Registered neurodiagnostic EEG technologists,
- Neuro-trained registered nurses,
- Care management specialists,
- Insurance specialists
We will also partner with your referring physician to maintain a continuum of care beyond your time at Lutheran Medical Center.
What to expect
An EMU stay is generally 3-5 days.
We offer large private rooms with private bathrooms, some with a beautiful view of the city or mountains. Our culinary team has great insight to many dietary needs and requests. Each room has a TV with cable, a telephone and exercise equipment upon request. You are welcome to bring your own laptop, games, books, magazines, or personal past time.
Please wear comfortable clothes; for example, shorts, lounge clothes or pajamas. Clothes with buttons or zip ups are best suited to wear and change in/out of as you may desire.
During the stay you will meet with an Epileptologist daily. Our Registered EEG technologist will continuously monitor you during your stay to ensure your safety.
When the final monitoring and medication changes are complete a formal report will be sent to your referring physician. Our team and your physician will work together to lay out a long term treatment and management plan.
Other Services Provided at Lutheran Medical Center
- Electroencephalogram (EEG)
- Ambulatory electroencephalogram (a.EEG)
