SLEEP STUDY FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Am I sleeping in a room by myself?
Yes. You do have your own private room that is set up similar to a hotel room. There is a recliner, TV, and Wi-Fi. Please note that if the patient is under 18 years of age, a parent or guardian will need to be in the private room with the minor.
What time will I be leaving in the morning?
The technician will begin waking you at 5:00-5:30 am. The sleep lab closes at 6 am, so you will be out no later than 6 am.
Is there any way that I can stay later than 6 am?
Unfortunately, no. Everyone, including the staff, must be out at 6 am unless there are special circumstances, such as a MSLT day study, and those arrangements must be made in advance.
Can my husband/wife stay the night with me?
Significant others are not allowed to sleep overnight in the patient room. Please remember this is a test and other’s disruption in the room can wake the patient and compromise the accuracy of the test. We will make other arrangements for the patient if, due to medical reasons, a partner or caregiver must be available on site.
Will I be hooked up with wires during the sleep study?
Yes, but it is non-invasive. The sleep technician needs to monitor your heart rate, limb movements, eye movements, air flow, breathing effort, chin muscle tone, and brain activity. This is how the data is collected for the physician to review and interpret your sleep study.
How can I sleep with all of the sensors?
Most people sleep reasonably well. We need to obtain a sample of your sleep pattern. The application of the body sensors and electrodes allows you to change positions in your sleep.
Will the sensors hurt?
No. This is a painless and non-invasive testing procedure. Paste is applied to your skin and scalp to keep the electrodes in place, but it is easily removed with soap and warm water.
Am I going to be videotaped during the study?
Yes. However, it is only a small box on the computer screen. Your technician needs to monitor your study and make sure the data is being collected correctly by watching the different positions the patient is in while sleeping.
Can I sleep without pajamas on?
No. Some form of sleep wear is required.
What time will the technician wake me up?
After the technician gathers all the information needed, around 6 hours of readings, you will then be woken up between the hours of 5:00 am-5:30am and will then be released to go home.
What if I need to use the bathroom?
Since you will be monitored during your testing, you can call out to your technician. The technician will come into your room and assist you with the process to make it easier. You need to wait for the tech to help with the wires.
Can I bring my own pillow and blankets?
Yes. You are more than welcome to bring in your own pillow and blanket. You can also bring in a book to help you fall asleep.
Can I take a sleep aid?
If your physician has prescribed a sleep aid for the night of the study or approved a medication you are on, then yes. You must have the sleep aids approved prior to the testing.
Can I drive myself or do I need to be dropped off?
Either is fine. If you are on any medications that would affect your driving, then we would ask you to be dropped off.
Is there breakfast provided?
No, but we have a refrigerator available for any items you may bring.
When will I get my results from the study?
Please allow 10-14 days following the successful completion of the test.
What is CPAP Titration?
For CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) titration, we will use the wires that were used for your diagnostic study. Also, you will be asked to sleep with a CPAP mask over your nose. The mask delivers air to keep your airway open. This test is used to determine the optimal pressure that will effectively treat your sleep apnea and snoring.
Is the sleep study covered by insurance?
Most insurers cover sleep studies. However, check with your insurance provider to be sure this procedure is a paid benefit under your plan, and it has been authorized.
WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO KNOW FOR MY SLEEP STUDY?
As we have several locations, please be aware and make note of the CSCC sleep center, suite number, and entry instructions for the specific location where your study is scheduled.
WHAT IS AN MSLT OR MWT
Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) / Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) The MSLT test for excessive daytime sleepiness works by measuring how quickly you fall asleep in a quiet environment during the day. Also known as a daytime nap study, the MSLT is the standard tool used to diagnose narcolepsy and idiopathic hypersomnia. The Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) is used to measure how alert you are during the day. It shows whether you can stay awake for a defined period. This is an indicator of how well you can function and remain alert in quiet times of inactivity.
CANCELING A SLEEP STUDY
If you need to cancel your scheduled sleep study, you must give the Sleep Center a 72-hour notice. To reschedule your study, call 703-729-3420 or a cancelation fee of $350 will be charged.
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE/NEEDS
If you currently use any of the items listed below, reside in a skilled nursing facility, or have any other special needs, please call the Sleep Center as soon as possible: * Wheelchair * Personal Care Assistant * Incontinence pads *Oxygen * Medication assistance * Lifting devices * Special bed *Recliner