The Epilepsy Monitoring Unit

The Epilepsy Monitoring Unit (EMU) is a specialized six-bed inpatient unit at The Johns Hopkins Hospital designed to evaluate, diagnose, and treat seizures in patients of all ages.

Computer-based monitoring for evaluating and diagnosing seizures

Staffed with specially trained medical, nursing, and technical personnel monitoring patients 24 hours a day, the EMU is equipped with computer-based monitoring equipment expressly designed for the evaluation of seizure disorders. Based on this evaluation, treatment options can be determined.

Patients who suffer from seizures which are difficult to diagnose and manage are those most likely to be admitted to the EMU. Patients who are being considered for seizure surgery will also be admitted to the EMU for monitoring to identify to location in the brain the seizures begin.

Epilepsy experts

Neurologists, neurosurgeons, nurse specialists, EMU technicians, epilepsy fellows, residents, medical students, nursing students, psychologists, counselors, and social workers may all be involved in the care of each EMU patient. Patients are cared for by their own primary nurse who is responsible for the planning and coordination of their nursing care. The EMU team also includes specialists and biomedical engineers who supervise the functioning of the monitoring equipment.

Learn more about the EMU

• Admission in the EMU
• What to expect
• What to bring to the EMU
• Visiting hours

Request an Appointment

For more information, request an appointment at the Epilepsy Center.