A person’s sleep patterns are the focus of a polysomnographic technologist’s work.
Polysomnographic technologists monitor and assess people’s sleep patterns using data from sleep studies. These tests, called polysomnography, are usually done in clinical settings such as hospitals or sleep centers. People with sleep problems, such as insomnia, snoring, or night terrors, can go to a sleep center for an evaluation. After a thorough evaluation of the data collected, the polysomnographic technologist and the physician supervising the study will discuss diagnosis and treatment, as appropriate.
A person with insomnia may undergo a sleep study.
Patients often complete a form or are interviewed before coming to a sleep center. This information helps the sleep doctor and polysomnographic technologist choose the most appropriate type of sleep study. When the patient arrives, the polysomnographic technologist is responsible for informing the patient of what to expect during their visit to the department or facility. The technician or an assistant prepares the patient for monitored sleep.
People with sleep problems, such as snoring, can go to a sleep center for an evaluation.
Sleep studies monitor various functions essential for healthy sleep, including activity in the brain, heart, eyes, and muscles. The sensors are usually placed on the patient’s face, scalp, and sometimes other parts of the body. The patient is then left alone to try to sleep. Sensor data is sent to the technologist’s computer in a separate room. He or she watches the patient sleep through the cameras, taking notes on sleep occurrences such as snoring or movement.
Once the sleep study is complete, a polysomnographic technologist must evaluate the data from the computer and the notes taken. It then analyzes the data and works with a doctor so that a proper diagnosis and treatment plan can be developed. The patient may return to the clinic at a later date, where the polysomnographic technologist can support and discuss possible treatment options with the patient.
Working with patients and healthcare professionals requires good communication skills. Polysomnographic technologists must also be attentive to detail, as inaccuracies in computer data can result in an incorrect diagnosis. Sleep studies are usually done at night, so it is important that the polysomnographic technologist is comfortable working during non-social hours.
The training required to become a polysomnographic technologist varies by location. In the United States, there are several routes into the field, although employers often prefer an associate’s degree in polysomnography or a related field. Those who have completed the appropriate courses or clinical training can take an exam to be recognized by the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT). More information is available from the American Association of Sleep Technologists.