Brainstem auditory evoked potential (BAEP) tests evaluate how the nervous system, specifically the brainstem, responds to specific sounds. BAEP tests are used to evaluate acoustic neuromas, brain stem tumors, hearing disorders, coma, brain death, and demyelinating diseases. They are also used to evaluate hearing loss in infants, small children, and other patients unable to give voluntary subjective responses to traditional hearing tests.

During a BAEP test, two electrodes are attached to the patient's scalp, and one is attached to each earlobe. Ear phones placed over the patient's ears deliver a series of tones or clicks to each ear separately. The electrodes record hundreds, sometimes thousands, of electrical responses from the patient's brainstem, and these responses are recorded by a special computer for interpretation by a physician.

Southern Utah Neurological and Neurodiagnostics requests the following of patients to ensure that quality BAEP results can be obtained:

• Ensure that your hair is clean and dry, and do not use any hair gels, dressings, or hairspray before the test. Dirty hair or scalp can interfere with electrode sensitivity.
• Eat your normal meals and take your regular medications, unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
• Do not wear earrings to the test.
• If you normally wear hearing aids or other hearing devices, bring them with you to the test.

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