Polysomnography Technologist

The Polysomnography Technologist reports to the Division Manager, Medicine/Ambulatory Care (Neurology) and is involved in the advanced technical, diagnostic and therapeutic work in the performance of provincial clinical Polysomnography and Diagnostic Neurophysiology.

• Extensive monitoring and clinical management of patients for a period of eight (8) to twelve (12) hours in a specialized sleep laboratory.
• Formulation of a detailed analysis of data retrieved from both overnight polysomnogram and daytime multiple sleep latency studies.
• Preparation of patients for evaluation by reviewing referrals, reviewing existing patient records, interviewing patients, and explaining procedures.
• Performance of overnight polysomnographic studies incorporating the use of audio-visual equipment and sophisticated computerized monitoring equipment to recognize and record significant clinical and physiological events.
• Review of polysomnographic records and provision of a sleep scoring analysis of sleep stages and events, which includes quantification of sleep EEG's, EKG's, respiratory and movement parameters.
• Assistance in the direction and implementation of clinical and research protocols by developing, organizing and revising computer patient database.

• Regular requirements and demands of this job include (but are not limited to):
• Work demands occasionally result in considerable fatigue requiring periods of rest.
• Occasional lifting and moving of objects less than 10 lbs., and required to push and pull portable equipment over 50 lbs.
• Occasional use of physical balance and handling to assist patients in and out of bed during sleep studies.
• Occasional requirement to work in awkward and cramped positions and confining spaces.
• Regular standing and walking when greeting patients or setting up equipment for procedures.
• Constant sitting in confining work positions where there is limited ability to move about, as they operate equipment and monitor and analyze video displays on a screen.
• Occasional use of gross motor skills.
• Constant use of fine motor skills.
• Visual concentration is required for proper data acquisition on a computer screen in dark rooms.
• Auditory concentration is required to listen to what a patient is saying; to hear specific and unique auditory sounds associated with sleep disorders/abnormalities, and to listen for alarms/monitors on equipment.
• Repetition requiring alertness is required when performing similar procedures for extended periods.

• Successful completion of a Polysomnography Technology program at an accredited teaching laboratory or completion of a formalized program in either Diagnostic Neurophysiology or Respiratory Therapy is required.
• Experience in Polysomnography, Diagnostic Neurophysiology or Respiratory Therapy is required.
• Certification with the American Board of Polysomnographic Technologists is required.
• A satisfactory record of work performance is required.