A Diagnostic Sleep Study is a non-invasive test that is performed overnight in a Sleep Investigation Unit. The test entails the recording of various biological processes that occur while you are asleep. These processes include brain wave activity, breathing, heart rhythm and rate, muscle effort, limb movements and oxygen levels in the blood.
Diagnotic Sleep Studies commence from 7pm in the evening and conclude at 6.00am or 7.00am the following morning.
On the night of your study you will be asked to complete a questionnaire about your sleeping habits in general and your activities during the day of your study. The following morning after your study the Nurse or Technician will ask you to complete another form about how you think your sleep compared to a normal night's sleep at home.
How should I prepare for a Diagnostic Sleep Study?
You will be sent some forms to complete prior to your admission including a Pre-Assessment Health Questionnaire. These forms are required to be returned to our Sleep Unit prior to your sleep study night to enable us to assist you with any special needs you may have.
Prior to your study, please take note of the following important points:
- Keep to your normal routine. This means that if you usually drink tea, coffee or alcohol in the evenings, you should do so on the night of your study. Also, please follow your normal sleeping routine in the week/s leading up to the sleep study.
- Take your usual prescribed medications, unless your doctor advises you otherwise. Remember to bring them with you if necessary.
- Please wash your hair and shower on the evening of your study, as this will remove oils and improve the quality of the recordings. Avoid using hair conditioner, styling products and moisturizers before your sleep study.
- Please remove any hairpieces prior to your sleep study, as electrodes will be attached to your scalp.
- Bring your sleepwear and toiletries with you, including shampoo/conditioner for use after your sleep study. Cotton pyjamas or shorts/t-shirt must be worn in the sleep unit. Please do not wear polyester or satin nightwear or nightgowns. If you have a favourite pillow, bring it with you. Please do not bring talcum powder.
- Bring all Medicare, Pension, Department of Veteran Affairs, Health Insurance and concession cards with you.
What does the procedure involve?
Once you are settled in, the night technician will connect a number of small sensors to your head, chest and legs so that they can measure your brain wave activity, heart rate, breathing patterns, leg movements and the amount of oxygen in your blood. All measurements are done in a non-invasive manner. Electrodes are placed on your body to record brain wave activity, muscle tone and leg movements. A clip will be placed on your finger to measure the oxygen level in your blood, and soft, stretchy belts will be placed around your chest and abdomen to measure breathing effort.
OUR SERVICES
