A sleep study is a recording of measurements used to identify various sleep conditions. Before the test, you will have the opportunity to ask questions about the sleep study. During testing, small sensors are applied to your skin with adhesive pads. These are necessary to monitor brain waves, muscle movement, breathing, snoring and heart rate. A soft belt is placed around your chest and waist to monitor your breathing. Finally, a sensor is attached to your finger to record your oxygen levels. None of these devices are painful and all are designed to be as comfortable as possible, allowing you to turn and move during sleep. You will also be able to get out of bed and use the restroom. Simply use the call bell and the technician will quickly unhook you from the sensors and you will be free to use your private bathroom.
Sleep technicians will recommend that you sleep on your back for a portion of the night as this is when the best clinical data is generated.
Continuous audio and video recording will monitor patients undergoing medical procedures at the Northside Hospital Sleep Disorders Centers. You will have access to a bathroom for full privacy and will use it for changing clothes.
Eat your evening meal before arriving. Bring any special diet snack foods that you may require before bed. We will have light snacks and ice water, juice, hot coffee or tea available. We will provide a continental breakfast the morning after your study.
Avoid caffeinated products, alcoholic beverages and napping 12 hours prior to your study. We will need to access your scalp for placement of electrodes, so your scalp and skin must be free from all products to enable the placement of electrodes. We highly recommend that you shower before arriving.
We recommend you take any medication prior to entering the sleep center unless it makes you drowsy or were specifically prescribed for bedtime. Please bring any medication inside its prescription bottles. We do not provide any medication at our sleep centers.
You must bring your photo ID and insurance Card. If a caretaker or family member is accompanying you, they also must present their photo ID.
Bring comfortable clothing to sleep in, toiletries, and any medications you take in their original prescription bottles. You can also bring your e-reader and iPads to make your stay more comfortable. A TV is located in your bedroom as well.
To ensure the highest level of comfort for our patients, make sure to bring your own personal pillow(s).
If you are completing a Home Sleep Apnea Test, please arrive on time at the sleep center location in which you were scheduled and check in with the receptionist. All you need to bring to your appointment is your insurance card and a photo ID.
Overnight guests can expect to be discharged between 6:00-6:30AM. Please note that at most locations you will be served a complimentary, continental breakfast. If you have an early commitment in the morning, be sure to inform the technician so they can ensure you are able to leave on time.
Daytime study guests can expect to be discharged between 5:00-5:30PM. Please note that you will be served a complimentary breakfast or lunch, depending on your type of study.
Once the study is complete, all patients will be given a summary report that outlines their next steps. Often the next step is having a follow-up appointment with your physician or a sleep center physician to discuss the results of your study. After you depart, your sleep study is analyzed and the scored results are produced for the physician to interpret.
For most people, falling asleep and staying asleep are parts of a natural process. Most adults require seven to nine hours of sleep a night, but distractions and bad habits keep us awake. Good sleepers are likely to have developed certain lifestyle and dietary habits that promote sound sleep. These habits or behaviors - known as sleep hygiene - can have positive effects on sleep before, during and after time spent in bed. Paying attention to good sleep hygiene is the most important thing you can do to maintain a good sleep. Use the techniques suggested below to help you sleep better on a regular basis.
