What Is a Sleep Lab Technician?
A sleep study is performed to determine the cause for sleep problems in individuals. A sleep lab technician, also known as a polysomnography worker, assists in sleep studies to determine sleep-related problems, such as daytime sleepiness. Technicians work with advanced sleep study personnel.
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Function
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Sleep lab technicians monitor equipment used in sleep studies, such as an electroencephalogram (EEG), which records brain activity as a person sleeps. The technician works under the supervision of a sleep technologist or the clinical director of a sleep study program.
Job Duties of a Sleep Technician
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The sleep technician has the responsibility of explaining sleep studies to patients, collecting patient information and checking patients during sleep studies. Technicians may help with scoring and maintaining sleep study records.
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Education and Skills
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A technician may complete an accredited training program with certification by a nationally accredited educational facility or a well-documented sleep technician trainee program. Communication skills are necessary, as are technical skills such as monitoring nasal and oral airflow in patients.
Work Environments and Risks
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Sleep technicians may work in independent or hospital-based sleep centers. Technicians should be aware of some nighttime work hours and exposure to possible chemical vapors.
Salary and Career Growth
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The salary for sleep technicians ranges from $35,000 to $50,000 per year based on work experience, geographic region and advanced training. Sleep technicians may take a supervisory role as sleep lab managers.
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