Polysomnography Technologist

SUMMARY:
Performs a variety of sleep studies in order to diagnose the type and extent of sleep disorders, as directed by a physician. Collects and transmits biological specimens for analyses. 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.

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: Associate’s degree or equivalent from two-year (2) college or technical school; or an equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.

EXPERIENCE: Six (6) months of sleep studies experience.

LICENSURE OR CERTIFICATION: Current Heartsaver CPR (HSCPR or HSFACPR) certification; Board Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT) certification preferred.

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.