DEGREE: ASSOCIATE OF APPLIED SCIENCE
DIVISION: ALLIED HEALTH
Polysomnography is the physiological measurement of sleep for identification of sleep disorders performed by technologists trained in the neurophysiology of sleep and wakefulness, anatomy and physiology of the cardio-respiratory system, pathophysiology of sleep disorders and instrumentation, and methodologies employed in this measurement. Sleep medicine is a recognized sub-specialty and is comprised of diverse medical disciplines. Polysomnography is essential to the evaluation of sleep and involves the collection and scoring of physiologic measurements and applications of therapeutic interventions. A Polysomnographic Technologist is trained on the use of information technology equipment and direct observation of clients in sleep laboratories to document diagnostic data for the for the purpose of treating sleep disorders.
The goal of this program is to prepare graduates with the skills required to perform quality sleep studies and to work in comprehensive sleep centers located in hospitals and independent sleep centers. Please contact the Allied Health Admissions Office at (504) 671-6201 to initiate the application process.
The Polysomnography Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP) by recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation for Polysomnographic Technology Education (CoA PSG). CAAHEP: 3955-113th St. N., #7709, Seminole, FL 33775, phone: 727-210-2350, fax: 727-210-2354, e-mail:
mail@caahep.org. CoA PSG: 1711 Frank Ave., New Bern, NC 28560, phone: 252-626-3238, e-mail:
office@coapsg.org.
Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of the Polysomnographic Technology Associate of Applied Science program, the leaner will be able to:
- Master didactic and clinical skills to function as a polysomnographic technologist (SLO # 1)
- Integrate appropriate communication skills with patients and colleagues (SLO # 2)
- Assess and observe normal and abnormal activity during a sleep study and use good judgment in responding to patient needs (SLO # 3)
- Construct a summary of findings to the physician to facilitate patient diagnosis and management (SLO # 4)
- Collaborate with team members regarding patient treatment protocols (SLO # 5)
- Educate patients about good sleep practices (SLO # 6)
- Exhibit professionalism, adherence to ethical principles, and sensitivity to a diverse patient population (SLO # 7)