Polysomnographic Technologist

Overview:

To be part of our organization, every employee should understand and share in the YNHHS Vision, support our Mission, and live our Values. These values - integrity, patient-centered, respect, accountability, and compassion - must guide what we do, as individuals and professionals, every day.

The polysomnographic technologist, under the direction of the supervisor and the Program Manager, prepares the patient, conducts overnight physiologic studies-polysomnograms(PSG), collects vital signs and other pertinent information to ensure proper interpretation by the physician/polysomnographer in accordance with established policies and procedures as assigned. Maintains vigilience in a non-stimulating environment and knows when to consult the supervisor physician regarding the patients status. Attention to detail is critical since the quality of data from the PSG is solely the responsibility of the technologist.

EEO/AA/Disability/Veteran

Responsibilities:

• 1. Under the the direction of the supervisor, prepares the patient, conducts overnight physiologic studies, polysomnograms (PSG), and collects pertinent information to ensure proper interpretation by the Physician/Polysomnographer in accordance with established polices and procedures as assigned. .
• 1.1 Formats optical disks for data acquisition, retrieves and archives data into the computer system. Anticipates and recognizes computer hard and optical disk data space limitations, transfers and archives data to prevent data loss during the overnight study
• 2. Follows YNHH and Sleep Center established safety precautions and procedures in the performance of all duties to insure a safe and clean environment
• 2.1 Recognizes and responds appropriately to patient's medical problems and physiological events, especially respiratory problems, seizures or cardiac dysrhythmias including notifying the Medical Director, activating emergency button for urgent help and administering supplemental oxygen or basic life support until help arrives.
• 3. Collaboration with co-workers, physicians both within the hospital and the outside community.
• 3.1 Assists and supports a learning environment. Assists new staff with understanding patient equipment set-ups.
• 4. Displays committment to professional growth and development by regular attendance at department meetings and educational programs and orientation participation.
• 5. Maintains vigilance in a non-stimulating environment and knows when to consult the nurse/physician regarding the patient's status. Attention to detail is critical since the quality of data from the PSG is solely the responsibility of the technologist
• 5.1 Majority of work is done overnight, ability to maintain wakefulness is essential.
• 6. Reviews existing information in the patient record, examines orders and protocols for study, recognizes sleep/wake or respiratory complaints, sleep patterns and potential need for treatment intervention during testing, collects pertinent patient information to insure proper interpretation by the physician and communicates with ordering physician or center/lab director to clarify unclear or inappropriate orders and communicates information about the patient's status.

Qualifications:

EDUCATION

High school graduate. Previous education in allied health or life science is helpful in assimilating the normal and abnormal physiology, as well as in working with the sophisticated equipment used during the polysomnogram. Preferred: Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT), Register Sleep Technologist (RST) or NBRC Sleep DIsorder Specialist (SDS) or Registered Respiratory Therapist.

EXPERIENCE

Three (3) years in Health Care related experience preferred. Successful completion of a sleep technology program, associated with a state licensed and/or a nationally accredited educational facility. A minimum of six months of experience as a sleep trainee with documented proficiency in all required competencies.

LICENSURE

Current credential as registered polysomnography technologist, Registered Respiratory Therapist, LPN, or minimum of six months of experience as a sleep trainee with documented proficiency in all required competencies.

SPECIAL SKILLS

Has the ability to understand normal cardiorespiratory, neurologic, and sleep/wake physiology.

PHYSICAL DEMAND

Overnight as well as flexible shifts. If not registered in sleep by the BRPT, NBRC or AASM the training curriculum for qualification for exam will be completed by employee within 7 months of hire. Passing the registry exam for sleep technologists will be completed within 13 months of hire.

Additional Information:

Required: Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT), Register Sleep Technologist (RST) or NBRC Sleep Disorder Specialist (SDS) or Registered Respiratory Therapist.
Current CPR certification.