What is the purpose of an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

An electroencephalogram (EEG) is a diagnostic tool specifically designed to measure the brain's electrical activity. This technique involves placing electrodes on the scalp, which detect the electrical impulses produced by neurons in the brain. The purpose of an EEG is to assess various brain functions, particularly in diagnosing conditions such as seizures, sleep disorders, and other neurological issues. By capturing and analyzing brain wave patterns, healthcare professionals can gain insights into the brain's health and activity levels, which is crucial for understanding a patient's neurological status.

Other options refer to different physiological measurements not related to brain function. For example, measuring heart function is done through an electrocardiogram (ECG), while monitoring blood flow in arteries pertains to imaging techniques such as ultrasound or angiography. Assessing muscle function typically involves electromyography (EMG), which evaluates the electrical activity of muscles. Thus, the emphasis on the specific measurement of electrical activity in the brain underscores why detecting the brain's electrical activity is the correct purpose of an EEG.