Overview
Develops competency in and performs the basics of Polysomnographic testing and associated interventions under direct supervision of a Technologist.
Responsibilities
Reviews patient’s history, verifies the medical order and protocol. Verifies patient identification, collects documents, and obtains consent for the study. Follows sleep center protocols related to the sleep study. Explains the procedure and orients the patient to the Sleep Center. Prepares and calibrates equipment required for testing to determine proper functioning. Applies electrodes and sensors according to accepted published standards. Performs appropriate physiologic calibrations to ensure proper signals. Performs routine positive airway pressure (PAP) mask fitting, and titration of CPAP and BIPAP. Follows procedural protocols under the direction and supervision of a Technologist or Technician. Performs appropriate physiological calibrations to ensure proper signals and makes required adjustments. Follows “lights out” procedures to establish and document baseline values including body position, oxy-hemoglobin saturation, respiratory and heart rates, etc. Performs data acquisition while monitoring study-tracing quality to ensure signals are artifact-free. Identifies, corrects (if possible) and reports signal abnormalities. Documents routine observations, changes in procedure and other significant events in order to facilitate scoring and interpretation of polysomnographic results. Assists with interventions including actions necessary for patient safety and therapeutic intervention as appropriate during the study. Follows “lights on” procedures to verify inegrity of collected data and complete the data collection process. Acquires and demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize and provide age specific care in the treatment, assessment, and education of neonatal, pediatric, adolescent, adult and geriatric patients. Performs other duties as required or assigned.Qualifications
- High School diploma or GED plus six (6) months of direct patient care experience; or one (1) year of post-secondary education; or current enrollment in an accredited educational program leading to an associate degree with an emphasis in polysomnography.
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team.
- Ability to use good judgment.
- Able to deal appropriately with emergency medical situations.
- Good interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrate effective written and spoken communication skills.
- Demonstrate ability to follow direction.
- Possess basic computer skills.
- Ability to recognize and observe privacy and confidentiality.
- Familiarity with laboratory equipment or analysis of physiological data (EEG, EKG, respiration, etc.) preferred.
Required Licensure/Certifications
- BLS required upon hire
