Frequently asked questions
What is a sleep study?
A sleep study is an overnight recording that documents various physiological activities during sleep. This provides your doctor with information about your sleep patterns and identifies any potential problems that might occur during sleep. Sleep studies are performed during a patient's normal sleeping hours. For those who regularly work at night, a daytime study may be ordered.
How is a sleep study performed?
You will spend the night in a comfortable, private room. Our facility is designed similarly to a nice hotel, with queen-size beds, televisions and all essential amenities. Before the study, a technologist will attach small sensors to your scalp, face and body. We do not use any needles and you will not experience any unusual discomfort.
Who performs sleep studies?
Our sleep studies are performed by specially trained, registered polysomnographic technologists. Experienced technologists are proficient at many tasks, including the proper application of sensors, the maintenance and operation of recording equipment, administration of CPAP therapy, the scoring and analysis of the recorded data, and taking good care of the patients who stay at the sleep center.
Who analyzes the sleep study?
All of our studies are hand-scored by experienced technologists and read by a board-certified sleep physician. We do not use automated data analysis functions because they have not been validated and may produce false results. Our meticulous scoring process ensures that your doctor will receive the most accurate information about your study
What should I bring to the sleep center?
Bring anything that makes you comfortable and anything you might need for the morning. Some patients prefer to bring their own pillow. If you are taking prescription medications, make sure to bring them with you. To avoid signal interference during the study, we ask that you refrain from bringing laptop computers or other electronic equipment.
Will I be able to get up during the night?
Yes. All the sensors are connected to a portable harness. You may get up to use the bathroom as often as you need. The wires are long enough to allow you to move around comfortably in bed and sleep in any position.
© 2008 N. Butkov
