Polysomnogram

A polysomnogram records your breathing patterns and the electrical activity in your brain while you are sleeping. This test is used to evaluate various sleep disorders.

How to Prepare

You will be admitted to the hospital for this procedure. Please arrive at the time and location given to you.

Bring sleep wear and a pillow with you to the test as well as any essential toiletries you may need, such as your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and a razor.

On the day of your appointment, wash and dry your hair, but do not apply spray, oil, mousse, or cream.

You may eat and drink as usual and remain active right up until the time of your appointment.

What to Expect

A technologist will escort you to the polysomnogram testing area, which contains a private bedroom and bathroom and a monitoring room. After you arrive, you will be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your sleeping habits. The questionnaire will include a number of questions, such as: How long does it usually take you to fall asleep? How many times do you awaken during the night? Do you feel refreshed after you awaken in the morning? Do you snore heavily while you sleep?

After you have completed the questionnaire, you will change into your sleep wear or a hospital gown and get ready for bed as you normally would at home.

When you are ready, the technologist will use a glue-like substance to place 12 small disks (electrodes) on your head and face and two electrodes on each of your legs. A thin wire sensor will be placed under your nostrils and in front of your mouth. The electrodes and sensors will be linked to a computer that will measure your brain's activity and breathing patterns while you are sleeping.

The technologist will also wrap two-inch-wide elastic bands around your chest and stomach and secure them with Velcro. These elastic bands are equipped with electrodes to help the technologist assess your breathing patterns. Finally, a small plastic sensor will be attached with adhesive tape to your finger tip to measure your oxygen level.

Once everything is in place, you will be asked to lie on the bed and relax until you fall asleep. During the night, the technologist will remain awake and monitor you continuously. When you awaken in the morning, the electrodes, sensors, and elastic bands will be removed.

The polysomnogram is painless and takes approximately 12 hours to complete. You may resume your normal activities immediately.