ABPN Clinical Neurophysiology study plan

Map the 10-20 and modified combinatorial electrode placements and explain the rationale for each montage type (referential, bipolar, Laplacian)

Identify normal adult waking and drowsy EEG patterns, including posterior dominant rhythm, mu, and benign variants

Differentiate the four NREM sleep stages and REM on EEG by frequency, voltage, and defining features

List activation procedures and state the expected physiologic response to each

Classify focal and generalized seizure onset patterns by morphology, field, and frequency evolution

Apply the ACNS critical-care EEG terminology to describe background, periodic discharges, and rhythmic patterns

Distinguish epileptiform discharges from artifacts (eye, muscle, electrode, pulse, sweat)

Outline a systematic 10-step reading approach and apply it to at least 10 practice tracings

Derive expected nerve conduction values from basic principles of latency, distance, and conduction velocity

Perform and interpret median, ulnar, tibial, peroneal, and sural studies with correct setup and pitfalls

Distinguish axonal loss from demyelination using NCS patterns and apply the appropriate criteria

Explain needle EMG spontaneous activity and motor unit potential changes in neuropathic and myopathic disease

Localize a lesion to root, plexus, or peripheral nerve using combined NCS and EMG findings

Diagnose common entrapment neuropathies (carpal tunnel, ulnar at elbow, peroneal at fibular head) from NCS/EMG data

Recognize and avoid technical errors in NCS (temperature, submaximal stimulation, co-stimulation, electrode placement)

Review and consolidate EEG seizure-semiology correlations from weeks 1-3

Describe the generator sites and recording montages for visual, brainstem auditory, and somatosensory evoked potentials

Interpret VEP waveforms and identify causes of prolonged P100

Identify BAEP waves I-V and their anatomic correlates, and recognize patterns of brainstem dysfunction

Explain SSEP component naming, normal values, and prognostic use in coma and spinal cord injury

Apply evoked potential findings to demyelinating disease, brain death, and intraoperative monitoring scenarios

Stage sleep using AASM rules for N1, N2, N3, REM, and wake on a full epoch set

Score respiratory events, arousals, and periodic limb movements using AASM criteria

Interpret a polysomnogram report and formulate a diagnosis of obstructive or central sleep apnea

Explain autonomic testing modalities (tilt table, quantitative sudomotor axon reflex, Valsalva, heart rate variability) and their interpretation

Differentiate syncope, orthostatic intolerance, and autonomic failure from test findings

Integrate PSG and autonomic findings into clinical case vignettes

Review EP waveform interpretation under time pressure

Target weak areas identified in earlier error logs

Synthesize all four domains into a single integrated review schedule

Re-test all previously missed items and confirm mastery

Practice full-length timed exam conditions

Finalize a concise high-yield summary sheet for each domain