Polysomnography professionals study sleep patterns to diagnose sleep problems and their effects on health. Technologists interpret physician notes and monitor equipment, assistants prepare patients, and coordinators manage the department.
Polysomnography is the science of sleep study. This profession helps patients observe sleep habits, diagnosing what prevents them from having a good night’s sleep and how it affects their health. There are three main jobs of polysomnography, each focused on helping uncover patient problems. Technologists, assistants and coordinators have responsibilities for studying sleep patterns in order to improve the health and well-being of clients.
Polysomnography work is usually performed in a sleep laboratory. Patients are hooked up to various monitoring devices and asked to rest. Using electroencephalogram, electrooculogram, and electromyography readings in conjunction with airflow and heart rate monitoring equipment, polysomnography professionals can better understand the causes and effects of poor sleep. To properly perform this service, the three main polysomnography jobs must be performed.
Compared to other polysomnography jobs, the technologist has the most responsibility to the patients. This person is responsible for reviewing the notes provided by the physician about the patient and interpreting the tests the physician would like performed. In many cases, polysomnography technologist jobs require a high level of communication skills to talk with patients and inform them about the process. Additionally, technologists must monitor the equipment to ensure it is working properly and then record the results for clinicians to review later.
Assistants play another important role in polysomnography jobs because their job ensures that the technologist can focus on their tasks. The assistant frequently prepares patients for a sleep study, answering questions, connecting sensors, ensuring patient comfort, and performing any additional tasks a technician needs. Studies often have several different patients on any given night; therefore, an assistant may have to assist with various patient observations.
One of the most complex polysomnography jobs is working as a coordinator. This is a managerial position overseeing a polysomnography department. This person must work with the coaches and assistants to ensure that the proper staff is on duty at all times and that each member is accurately trained in techniques and equipment. A coordinator should also work with directors of neurology departments to review current policies and procedures in order to keep the polysomnography department operating efficiently within requirements.
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