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Neurodiagnostic technologists use specialized equipment to monitor how well a patient’s nervous system is functioning, so doctors can identify and treat neurological problems.
Neurodiagnostic technologists receive extensive training in neurophysiology, so they can identify normal and abnormal electrical activity in the central, nervous, autonomic and peripheral nervous systems. By recording electrical patterns throughout these systems, neurodiagnostic technologists provide valuable data that a physician will use to diagnose and treat conditions such as headaches, dizziness, seizure disorders, strokes and degenerative brain disease.
The tests performed by neurodiagnostic technologists can also help doctors uncover hidden causes of mental disorders and determine whether a patient is “brain dead.”
Neurodiagnostic technologists perform a number of procedures, including:
The EEG is the most common test performed by neurodiagnostic technologists. Technologists also are responsible for ensuring the safety of patients and staff and maintaining and calibrating equipment.
Neurologists depend on neurodiagnostic technologists to provide accurate data and analysis. The neurodiagnostic technologist must, therefore, have the knowledge, judgment and critical thinking skills to ensure that the results reported are accurate and complete.
Neurodiagnostic technologists work with patients of all ages. They work in hospitals, clinics, physician’s offices, epilepsy monitoring units, sleep disorder centers and research institutions. Most of their procedures are performed in labs stocked with the equipment required to conduct neurodiagnostic studies.
Neurodiagnostic monitoring procedures can last from an hour or two to prolonged continuous monitoring. During that time, the neurodiagnostic technologist will ensure that the patient is comfortable, answer questions about the procedure and help to relieve any anxiety, while constantly observing the data being recorded by the neurodiagnostic equipment.
Patients undergoing certain surgical procedures require intraoperative neuromonitoring. In this case, the neurodiagnostic technologist will monitor the patient’s EEG or evoked potentials throughout the procedure, providing the surgeon with ongoing information about the patient’s nerve function and/or brain activity.
The career potential for neurodiagnostic technologists is excellent. The median starting salary is $44,200 for a recent neurodiagnostic program graduate, to over $112,333 per year for full-time, self-employed neurodiagnostic professionals. The average salary for all neurodiagnostic technologists is $65,226.
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Neurodiagnostic technologists need a high school diploma and, preferably, a two-year degree with coursework in the physical or biological sciences.
Training programs in neurodiagnostic technology typically require one to two years of study, including clinical work with patients. Search for schools that provide training for this career.
There are currently four pathways you can take to become eligible to take the EEG credentialing exam:
Neurodiagnostic technologists must have a current CPR/basic cardiac life support (BCLS) certification to take the exams. The registry exam consists of two written exams.
In high school:
After high school:
Some states are considering licensure requirements for neurodiagnostic technologists, particularly those who perform polysomnographs.
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Allied Health Professions
Last updated: April 23, 2014
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