Polysomnographic Technologist - PRN

The Polysomnographic Technologist provides a comprehensive evaluation and treatment of sleep disorders under the general supervision of the Medical Director. This can include performing polysomnography, providing diagnostic and therapeutic services, patient care, and education. In addition, the Polysomnographic Technologist is responsible for analyzing sleep data and presenting relevant findings to the Medical Director.

GENERAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Gather and Analyze Patient Information

1. Collect, analyze, and integrate patient information to identify and meet the patient-specific needs (physical/mental limitations, current emotional/physiological status regarding the testing procedure, pertinent medical/social history).
2. Complete and verify Registration and patient history documentation.
3. Explain pre-testing, testing, and post-testing procedures to the patient.

Testing Preparation Procedures

1. Prepare and calibrate equipment required for testing to determine proper functioning and adjust if necessary.
2. Apply electrodes and sensors according to the accepted published standards.
3. Perform appropriate physiologic calibrations to ensure proper signals and adjust if necessary.
4. Perform positive airway pressure (PAP) mask fitting. 

Polysomnographic Procedures

1. To ensure appropriate data collection, follow procedural protocols (such as the Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT), PAP oxygen titration, etc.).
2. Follow “LIGHTS OUT” procedures to establish and document baseline values (such as body position, oxyhemoglobin saturation, respiratory and heart rates, etc.)
3. Perform Polysomnographic data acquisition while monitoring study-tracing quality to ensure artifact-free signals and adjust as necessary.
4. Document routine observations, including sleep stages and clinical events, changes in procedure, and significant events to facilitate scoring and interpretation of polysomnographic results.
5. Implement appropriate interventions (including actions necessary for patient safety and therapeutic interventions such as continuous and bi-level airway pressure, oxygen administration, etc. under Sleep Center protocols.
6. Follow “LIGHTS ON” procedures to verify the integrity of collected data and complete the data collection process.
7. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to recognize and provide age-specific care in treating, assessing, and educating adolescent, adult, and geriatric patients.
8. Oversees and performs difficult and unusual procedures and therapeutic interventions. 

Polysomnographic Record Scoring

1. Show proficiency in scoring sleep/wake stages by applying professionally accepted guidelines.
2. Show proficiency in scoring clinical events (such as respiratory events, cardiac events, limb movements, arousals, etc.) according to Sleep Center specifications.
3. Generate accurate reports by tabulating sleep/wake and clinical event data. 

Service Management and Professional Issues

1. Comply with applicable laws, regulations, and safety and infection control standards.
2. Perform routine equipment care and maintenance.
3. Demonstrate effective written and communication skills.
4. Respond to study participants’ procedural-related inquiries by providing appropriate information.
5. Demonstrate the ability to analyze complex situations and apply Sleep Center Policies. 
6. Comply with the Board of Registered Technologists (BRPT) Standards of Conduct.  

The above statements reflect the general duties considered necessary to describe the essential functions of this position as identified. They shall not be considered a detailed description of all the work requirements that may be inherent in the position.

Education: High School Diploma with a minimum of 2 years of college.

Experience: Six (6) months experience as a Polysomnographic Trainee with proficiency in all competencies or successful completion of a polysomnographic program associated with a state-licensed or nationally accredited education facility.

Licenses/Certificates: Board-registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT) or Registered Respiratory Therapist licensed with the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners. Current American Heart Association (AHA) BLS certification.  

Physical Requirements: Able to work the night shift.

Reports To: Sleep Lab Director / Medical Director

Positions reporting directly to this position: None