Polysomnography Technologist III

SUMMARY:

Performs a variety of sleep studies to diagnose the type and extent of sleep disorders, as directed by a physician. Performs and records patient assessment. Scores sleep records and documents other test results. Calibrates and adjusts equipment, including troubleshooting minor problems.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

• Applies suitable electrodes on predetermined measured positions on the patient’s head according to lab standards.

·         Administers oxygen and nasal CPAP/BiPAP as prescribed by a physician.

• Instructs the patient in the proper use and care of nasal CPAP/BiPAP equipment.
• Performs routine and difficult polysomnography recordings, of all age groups and acuities.
•  Abstracts relevant information from the patient, patient’s clinical record, or family member, and completes sleep questionnaire.
• Assesses patient’s status pre, during and post procedure; observes patient for any unusual reactions or events, listing all pertinent information on the record.
• Adapts procedures to particular clinical circumstances, i.e. appropriate control settings changes, use of extra electrodes, and extra montages, including full set of EEG electrodes when appropriate.
• Calibrates and adjusts the EEG apparatus in accordance with standard procedures.
• Notifies appropriate personnel of equipment malfunctions and repairs needed.
• Helps patients get into and out of chairs, lifts patients, raises patients in beds, and turns the patients.
• Recognizes artifact and documents, eliminates, or takes proper measures to monitor the artifact.
• Adheres to and supports team members in exhibiting TMCH values of integrity, community, compassion, and dedication. 
• Adheres to TMCH organizational and department-specific safety and confidentiality policies and standards.
• Performs related duties as assigned.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION:

·         Graduate of an accredited Polysomnography technology program or possess equivalent training and experience. Associate’s degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

·         Five (5) years of sleep studies required.

LICENSURE OR CERTIFICATION:

·         Board Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT) certification or Registered Respiratory Therapist (RRT) is required.

·         Current Basic Life Support (BLS).

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES: 

·         Knowledge of sleep studies protocol used to diagnose the type and extent of sleep disorders and how to collect and transmit biological specimens for analyses.

·         Skill in placement of electrodes and how to measure and record results.

·         Ability to read and interpret documents such as safety rules, operating and maintenance instructions, and procedure manuals.

·         Ability to complete routine reports and correspondence.

·         Ability to listen and accurately interpret others’ communication or instructions to take appropriate action.

·         Ability to speak effectively before groups of customers or employees of organization.

·         Ability to calculate figures and compute rate, ratio, and percent and to draw and interpret bar graphs and apply basic algebraic concepts.

·         Ability to define problems, collect data, establish facts, and draw valid conclusions.

·         Ability to interpret an extensive variety of technical instructions in mathematical or diagram form and deal with several abstract and concrete variables.