What does a registered polysomnographic technologist do?

1 Job Responsibilities

A RPSGT has a range of responsibilities before, during, and after a sleep study. Before the study, a RPSGT prepares the equipment, calibrates the sensors, and explains the procedure to the patient. During the study, a RPSGT monitors the patient's sleep patterns, records the data, and intervenes if necessary. For example, a RPSGT may adjust the pressure of a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine for a patient with sleep apnea. After the study, a RPSGT scores the data, summarizes the findings, and reports them to a physician or a sleep specialist.

2 Education and Certification

To become a RPSGT, you need to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and complete an accredited educational program in polysomnography. These programs typically last from six months to two years, and cover topics such as sleep physiology, sleep disorders, sleep technology, and patient care. After completing the program, you need to pass a national certification exam administered by the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT). The exam tests your knowledge and skills in performing sleep studies, and requires you to renew your certification every five years.

4 Work Environment and Outlook

A RPSGT usually works in a sleep center, which can be part of a hospital, a clinic, or a standalone facility. A sleep center has several rooms equipped with beds, cameras, microphones, and polysomnography equipment. A RPSGT works in shifts, often at night or on weekends, to accommodate the patients' sleep schedules. A RPSGT may also work in a home setting, where they set up portable devices for patients who prefer to sleep in their own environment. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for RPSGTs is expected to grow by 19% from 2019 to 2029, due to the increasing awareness and prevalence of sleep disorders.

5 Benefits and Challenges

A RPSGT can enjoy several benefits from their career, such as helping people improve their health and quality of life, learning new technologies and techniques, and working in a dynamic and interdisciplinary field. However, a RPSGT can also face some challenges, such as coping with irregular hours, dealing with stressful situations, and maintaining high standards of accuracy and ethics. A RPSGT needs to be adaptable, resilient, and passionate about their work to overcome these challenges and succeed in their role.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?