Sleep Studies
Patient Instructions
You are scheduled for an overnight sleep study (Polysomnogram) at Carteret General Hospital. Prior to your appointment, someone from the hospital’s Admission Department may contact you to pre-register.
On the night of your test, park and enter the hospital through the Emergency Department/Registrations entrance. You will need to be at the hospital at 8:00 PM. Please register at Outpatient Registration and follow directions on back of this sheet to the Sleep Disorders Laboratory.
What to bring on the night of your test:
- Insurance cards
- Comfortable cotton sleepwear (Please do not wear silk)
- Toiletries, books, tape/tape recorder or anything else to help you relax
- Your pillow, if preferred
- Medications you normally take. Please bring an updated list of all medicines you are currently taking, prescription and over-the-counter. We recommend you bring something for a headache, an upset stomach or indigestion if you think you may need it.
Preparing for your test:
- Shower and wash your hair before the test. Men should be freshly shaven, however, full beards are allowed.
- DO NOT nap on the day of your test.
- DO NOT apply lotion to your skin.
- DO NOT wear any hairpieces, wigs or weaves.
- DO NOT apply any hair gels, spray or oil to hair or scalp.
- DO NOT wear fingernail polish or acrylic nails.
- DO NOT use any caffeinated products after 2 PM on day of test.
Reminders:
- Family members are not permitted to stay in your room overnight except if pre-arranged for assistance with handicap needs.
- Contact your insurance representative if you have questions about coverage prior to the test.
- Generally, you will be awakened at 6 AM and allowed to shower and leave. If additional testing is indicated, your test will be over by 5:00 PM. You will know by 7 AM, if you need to stay.
- You will receive breakfast free of charge.
Questions about your test or to reschedule your appointment, please call 808-6615 (Mon. – Fri. , 9 AM – 3:30 PM). We look forward to working with you in the Sleep Disorders Laboratory.
Frequently Asked Questions About Sleep Studies
What is a Sleep Study?
When you sleep your body functions differently than when you are awake. Daytime activities and health risk may be affected by disrupted sleep. Your physician has ordered a diagnostic test called a sleep study. During testing the length and quality of your sleep are measured and analyzed.
What do I need to expect?
Your test will be performed in a comfortable, private room. You will be asked to complete a short bedtime questionnaire before changing into your night clothes. The technician will attach small recording sensors/electrodes on your scalp, face, arms and legs. These electrodes do not hurt and you can move freely while sleeping. You will not be given any type of sleep aid unless ordered by your physician.
You may read or watch TV until you are ready for bed. An intercom will allow you to contact the technician to assist you with any needs. The technician will be observing you while you sleep through a small TV camera. This is necessary to record any movement during sleep.
You will be awakened at approximately 5:30 AM. Shower facilities are available for your use. You will receive a free continental breakfast in the hospital’s cafeteria.
What is recorded while I sleep?
- EEG or brain wave activity
- EKG or heart rate and rhythm
- Eye movement
- Muscle movement
- Breathing pattern and effort
- Blood oxygen levels
Will I receive additional testing?
Occasionally, an additional test called a multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) may be necessary. If indicated, you will be asked to stay during the morning and afternoon and take several naps during this time. The technician will awaken you at the end of each nap. Generally, all testing will be completed by 5 PM. Should you be required to stay for additional testing, breakfast and lunch will be provided to you. If you are unable to stay for further testing, please notify the technician in advance.
