Polysomnographic Technician under the direction of a physician, administers various sleep studies in order to diagnose the type and extent of sleep disorders. Performs routine patient assessments, scores sleep records, documents other test results, and collects and transmits biological specimens for analysis. Being a Polysomnographic Technician typically requires an associate degree or its equivalent and certification as a Polysomnographic Technician. Typically reports to a supervisor or manager. Polysomnographic Technician's years of experience requirement may be unspecified. Certification and/or licensing in the position's specialty is the main requirement. (Copyright 2024 Salary.com)
Polysomnographic Technologist Education Experience Physical Demands
Neuroscience Center | Full-Time | Nights |
3109 Bienville Blvd
Ocean Springs, Mississippi, 39564
United States
Position Overview
The Polysomnographic Technologist works under medical supervision to perform and evaluate overnight polysomnograms. He/She functions independently to safely operate sophisticated medical equipment to record sleep and wake physiology. The Technologist applies recording devices to the patient; cleans and sterilizes equipment; and monitors polysomnograms. The Polysomnographic Technologist recognizes sleep pathology when it occurs in the laboratory and responds with the appropriate interventions to ensure patient safety. He/She understands normal cardiorespiratory, neurological, and sleep physiology which provides the basis for monitoring polysomnograms and recognizes pathology that requires treatment. The Technologist utilizes equipment to monitor and record breathing airflow/effort); encephalograms (brain waves); electrocardiograms (heart rate and rhythm); electromyograms (muscle activity); and pulse oximetry (blood oxygenation/saturation).
High School graduate or equivalent required. Successful completion of an approved Polysomnography education program preferred OR graduate from an accredited, state approved, Respiratory Therapy Program preferred.
License
N/A
Certification
Required to complete (by end of orientation) and maintain BLS certification.
Prefer candidates with one of the following at hire:
Experience as an EEG technologist, respiratory care practitioner, pulmonary function technologist, or other allied health professional is required. Must have the ability to understand normal cardio-respiratory, neurological, and sleep/wake physiology.
Stands, turns, bends, stoops, lifts, climbs, and uses many physical motions in performing day-to-day activities. Must be able to stand for
extended periods of time and do a great deal of walking without experiencing undue fatigue. May be exposed to communicable disease or radiation.
Work involves being able to perceive the nature of sounds at normal speaking levels, with or without correction. Must demonstrate the ability to communicate, speak, and enunciate to express/exchange ideas and detailed information in person and on the telephone. Work requires a minimum standard of visual acuity, with or without correction, with the ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus, i.e. shift gaze from viewing a computer monitor to forms that are closer to compare data at close vision. Work requires 10 hour night shifts.
Mental Demands
Must demonstrate keen mental faculties/assessment and decision making abilities. Must demonstrate superior communication/speaking/enunciation skills to receive and give information in person and by telephone. Must demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills. Must possess emotional stability conducive to dealing with high stress levels. Must demonstrate ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines. Attention to detail and the ability to multi-task in complex situations is required.
Must have the ability to integrate a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology with sleep/wake pathology. Attention to detail is critical, since the quality of data from the polysomnogram is solely the responsibility of the technologist. Must be able to maintain vigilance in a non-stimulating environment. Must be able to assimilate data from several sources and anticipate initiation of care, in accordance with protocols, to prevent harm to the patient. Must know when to consult the physician regarding the patient’s care; must react quickly and calmly in emergency situations.
Special Demands
Must possess superior customer service skills and professional etiquette. Must possess proficient knowledge and ability to use a computer (must be keyboard proficient) and other office technology (i.e., telephone, fax, etc.). Must have intermediate knowledge of MS
Outlook, Word, and Excel.
Must be able to operate equipment and utilize computer technology essential to the quality of the information obtained during the polysomnograms. Must have the ability to integrate a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology with sleep and wake pathology.