Sleep Technician

Sleep technicians, polysomnographic and respiratory therapists specialize in sleep disorders and help patients with sleep deprivation and other problems. Sleep technicians are responsible for preparing patients for sleep studies, monitoring their sleep, and recording their data, which they share with doctors to help diagnose sleep disorders. Sleep technicians may also provide respiratory therapy to patients with breathing disorders.

Becoming a Sleep Technician, Polysomnographic, and Respiratory Therapist

To become a sleep technician, polysomnographic, and respiratory therapist, you will typically need to complete a two-year associate's degree program in sleep technology or respiratory therapy. Some employers may also require certification from the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT) or the National Board for Respiratory Care (NBRC).

Skills and Knowledge

Sleep technicians, polysomnographic and respiratory therapists should have a strong understanding of sleep disorders and how to diagnose and treat them. They should also be proficient in using sleep study equipment and be able to interpret the data collected during sleep studies. Additionally, sleep technicians should have good communication and interpersonal skills, as they will be interacting with patients and their families on a regular basis.

Advancement

With experience, sleep technicians, polysomnographic and respiratory therapists may be able to advance to supervisory or management positions. They may also choose to specialize in a particular area of sleep medicine, such as pediatric sleep disorders or sleep apnea.

Transferable Skills

The skills that sleep technicians, polysomnographic and respiratory therapists develop can be transferred to other careers in the healthcare field, such as nursing, respiratory therapy, or healthcare administration.

Day-to-Day of a Sleep Technician, Polysomnographic, and Respiratory Therapist