Becoming a sleep technologist requires completing a two-year program in sleep technology, obtaining certification, and having an interest in sleep disorders and research. Good communication skills and an aptitude for math and science are also important. Jobs are available at hospitals and sleep clinics worldwide.
Become a sleep technologist by combining your interest in sleep technology with field training. Sleep technology is a separate field within medicine that focuses on sleep disorders and research. If this area of study interests you, it helps to have a desire to help others, an interest in research, and an ability to work with complex equipment. Other skills such as good communication and a desire to continue your education throughout your career are also important to becoming a sleep technologist.
To become a sleep technologist, you need to be trained in the field of sleep technology, sometimes known as polysomnographic technology. This requires completion of a program at a college or university in sleep technology. There are accredited training programs that provide the knowledge and skills needed to do the job properly. Programs typically run for two years and include classes on sleep technology equipment, analytics and research. Once you graduate from a program and become Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) certified, you can begin applying for positions.
Places are available at hospitals and sleep clinics around the world. Getting good grades and letters of recommendation in your training program will help you on your journey to becoming a sleep technologist. The application process varies from position to position; therefore, check with the potential employer to find out exactly what they need from you to become a sleep technologist in their organization. Talk to your school’s advisors to discover open positions locally and in other areas.
Sleep disorders encompass a wide range of problems that people have while sleeping, from night terrors to insomnia. An interest in learning about these disorders is required, as well as studying ways to effectively monitor and adjust for them. Having an aptitude for math and science is helpful as many of the required classes use these subjects extensively. Some positions require night work to monitor sleeping patients, while others do not.
Good communication skills are important to becoming a sleep technologist because the job involves working with physicians and other experts in sleep disorders. The ability to convey information correctly is vital to success at work. In addition, you must have an interest in helping others, as the position requires helping patients to be monitored during their sleep and waking them up after testing is complete.
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