Your Sleep Study - What to Expect

Sleep Study Instructions Sheet

A sleep study or polysomnogram (PSG) is a multiple-component test that electronically transmits and records specific physical activities while you sleep. A technician located in a nearby control room will monitor you while you sleep and your data is recorded. Your data will be “read” or analyzed by a qualified physician to determine whether or not you have a sleep disorder.

What to Bring
Bring your pajamas, toothbrush and any other items you will need the next morning, including clothes for work if you plan to go there directly after your study. Many patients also like to bring their own pillow.

Preparation
Plan to arrive for your sleep study between 8 and 9 p.m. Upon arriving, you will be escorted to your private bedroom, which will resemble a comfortable room at a nice hotel. There, you will be asked to change into your pajamas before a technician applies 16 electrodes on you head and body to monitor your heart rate, brain wave activity and leg movement. The process is painless, and the electrodes come off easily after the study is over. The hook-up process will take place in your bedroom and takes approximately 30- 45 minutes. As you sleep, you will also be videotaped throughout the night.

Testing
Once you are hooked up and preparation is completed, you will have time to relax, read or watch television before going to sleep. Testing will begin at 11 p.m. You will need to have six hours of sleep to have a successful study. Most patients are able to leave at 6 a.m. the next morning.