Polysomnographic Technologist
Los Angeles, CA
Magnet Medical
4x10 hrs, Nights

A Sleep Technician is a healthcare professional responsible for performing sleep studies (polysomnography) and assisting in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, insomnia, and restless leg syndrome. Sleep Technicians work in sleep centers, hospitals, and clinics, where they monitor and record a patient’s sleep patterns, physiological data, and assist with the interpretation of the results to aid healthcare providers in creating treatment plans.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Conducting Sleep Studies (Polysomnography):

   • Set up and prepare equipment for sleep studies, including EEG, EMG, EOG, ECG, respiratory effort, and oxygen saturation monitoring.
   • Apply electrodes and sensors to the patient’s body to measure various physiological signals during sleep.
   • Monitor the patient throughout the study, ensuring proper equipment functioning and patient comfort.
   • Observe and record sleep stages, apnea episodes, limb movements, and other abnormalities related to sleep disorders.
   • Ensure accurate collection and quality of sleep study data for further interpretation by physicians or sleep specialists.

2. Patient Preparation and Care:

   • Greet and explain the sleep study procedure to patients, ensuring they understand what will happen during the test.
   • Assist patients with getting comfortable and positioning them correctly for the study.
   • Provide a calming environment and help patients relax to ensure they can sleep during the test.
   • Monitor patient comfort and safety, adjusting the equipment or positioning as necessary throughout the night.
   • Respond promptly to any patient concerns or discomfort during the study.

3. Equipment Setup and Maintenance:

   • Set up, calibrate, and operate specialized equipment used in sleep studies, including polysomnography machines and CPAP/BiPAP devices for patients with sleep apnea.
   • Troubleshoot equipment malfunctions, ensuring minimal disruption during testing.
   • Regularly inspect, clean, and maintain sleep study equipment to ensure accuracy and safety.
   • Follow safety protocols and hygiene standards when handling equipment, especially for patients with potential infectious conditions.

4. Monitoring and Data Recording:

   • Continuously monitor the patient’s physiological signals and adjust equipment settings to ensure accurate readings.
   • Record and document any events that occur during the sleep study, such as apneas, hypopneas, periodic limb movements, and arousals.
   • Track any disturbances or interruptions during the study and ensure they are properly documented in the patient's record.

5. Post-study Procedures:

   • Review and verify collected data for completeness and accuracy after the study is complete.
   • Provide the physician or sleep specialist with preliminary reports on the study, including any notable findings.
   • Ensure proper removal of electrodes and sensors after the test is completed, and assist the patient in preparing to leave.
   • Provide patients with any necessary instructions for follow-up care or further testing.
   • Assist in preparing reports or summaries for the doctor’s interpretation of the results.

6. Patient Education and Communication:

   • Educate patients on sleep disorders, treatments such as CPAP therapy, and the importance of proper sleep hygiene.
   • Provide instructions on the use of any home equipment, such as a CPAP machine, if applicable.
   • Answer any questions the patient may have about their test results, treatment options, or follow-up steps.

7. Collaboration with Healthcare Providers:

   • Work closely with sleep specialists, physicians, and other healthcare providers to help diagnose and treat sleep disorders.
   • Participate in team discussions regarding patient care and treatment plans based on study results.
   • Contribute to the development of treatment plans and interventions based on the findings of the sleep study.

8. Quality Control and Compliance:

   • Adhere to polysomnographic standards and clinical guidelines to ensure the highest quality patient care.
   • Follow all healthcare regulations, including HIPAA and OSHA standards, for patient confidentiality and safety.
   • Participate in ongoing education, workshops, and certification renewal to stay current with advancements in sleep technology and treatments.
   • Maintain accurate patient records and documentation according to facility protocols.