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BAER - brainstem auditory evoked response - Overview

Alternative Names

Evoked auditory potentials; BAEP - brainstem auditory evoked potentials; Evoked response audiometry

Definition of BAER - brainstem auditory evoked response:

Brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) is a test to measure the brain wave activity that occurs in response to clicks or certain tones.

How the test is performed:

You lie on a reclining chair or bed and remain still. Electrodes are placed on your scalp and on each earlobe. The earphones give off a brief click or tone. The electrodes pick up the brain's responses to these sounds and record them. You do not need to be awake for this test.

How to prepare for the test:

You may be asked to wash your hair the night before the test.

How the test will feel:

There is little discomfort.

Why the test is performed:

The test is done to help diagnose nervous system problems and hearing losses (especially in low birth weight newborns), and to assess neurological functions.

Brain

Brain wave monitor

Reviewed last on: 10/20/2008
Luc Jasmin, MD, PhD, Departments of Anatomy and Neurological Surgery, University of California, San Francisco, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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