A polysomnography technologist works with people who have sleep disorders that have been diagnosed or are suspected of having them. This type of technician primarily assists in the coordination of sleep studies, which includes preparing a patient for the study and monitoring the diagnostic equipment during the test. Throughout the study, these professionals are also responsible for the well-being of their patients.
A polysomnography is the most common diagnostic tool used in sleep studies. The results of this type of study are usually a series of readings from more than 20 electrodes placed on the patient’s scalp, face, and limbs. While the patient sleeps, each electrode is responsible for detecting activity in the area of the brain or body to which it is attached. The polysomnography technologist is then responsible for analyzing the results in order to identify any irregular readings that could indicate the source of a patient’s sleep problems.
The job of a polysomnography technologist, on the other hand, frequently begins before the first electrode is attached. Many patients find the idea of trying to sleep in a strange place while attached to a bundle of wires unsettling, despite the fact that it is painless. The technician is frequently tasked with putting the patient at ease. It’s critical to have a reassuring tone and good bedside manner.
A polysomnography technologist is responsible for the patient’s care during the sleep study in addition to monitoring the equipment. Serious medical conditions are frequently discovered during a sleep study. Irregular heartbeats and breathing cessation, for example, are symptoms of sleep disorders that must be treated right away. Patients have gone into cardiac arrest during sleep studies on rare occasions. As a result, CPR certification is usually required of sleep study technicians.
The polysomnography technologist’s responsibilities do not end when the sleep study is completed. Typically, a technician serves as a link between the patient and his or her primary care physician. The technician is frequently involved in the development of a treatment plan, which includes demonstrating prescribed equipment and providing patient education materials.
Due to the scarcity of polysomnography-specific educational programs, technicians are typically graduates of electroneurodiagnostic, nursing, or respiratory therapy programs. Certification as a polysomnography technician usually requires additional on-the-job training and continuing education. The American Association of Sleep Technologists and the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists have offered accreditation in the United States since 2011.