Diagnostic Polysomnogram

A polysomnogram (PSG) is a sleep study which involves an overnight recording of many important body functions and measurements. During sleep testing, these body functions are monitored using several devices, including:

• Small metal or adhesive discs (called electrodes) are applied to your head and skin to monitor brain, heart and muscle.
• Flexible elastic belts are placed around your chest and abdomen to monitor your breathing efforts.
• A soft plastic cannula placed in your nostrils monitors airflow.
• A clip is placed on your index finger to monitor the level of oxygen in your blood and your heart rate. 

Your sleep will also be videotaped for later review of any abnormalities observed during the study.

Preparing for the Test
Two Weeks Before the Test

• Complete Sleep Journal: Complete the sleep journal of your sleeping patterns and habits for at least 2 weeks prior to your sleep test.
• Complete Sleep Questionnaire: Complete sleep questionnaire on your symptoms and sleeping patterns.

 Two Days Before the Test

• Pre-register with Northwestern Memorial Hospital by calling 312-926-2950
• Confirm your appointment with the Sleep Center by calling 312-926-8120

 On the Day of your Study

• Do not eat or drink caffeinated products (coffee, tea, chocolate, soda) past 12 noon.
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages.
• Avoid use of excessive hair styling products (hairspray, gel, etc), makeup and body creams.
• Remove acrylic nails and nail polish from index fingers.
• Unless told otherwise, take all prescription medications as instructed by your physician.

 What to Bring

• Physician orders
• Sleep questionnaire and journal
• Toiletries and loose-fitting sleepwear
• Insurance card

Test Day

Come to the Neurological Testing and Sleep Disorders Center at Galter Pavilion, 201 E. Huron, 7h floor. Ring the "doorbell" to alert the technical staff to your arrival.

Please note, doors to Galter Pavilion are locked after 7 p.m. For after-hours access, enter through Feinberg Pavilion at 251 E. Huron. Check-in at the information desk on the first floor for further directions.

During the Test

For the sleep study, you will view a brief video presentation. Monitoring devices will be applied to allow for the recording of physiological variables (brain wave activity, heart/respiratory rate, oxygen level, limb movements, muscle activity) during your sleep. After the hook-up, which will take approximately 45 minutes, you will lie on your back while performing the following: move eyes left and right, blink, grind teeth, flex the toes and breathe in and out. You will then be instructed to sleep. Your sleep will be videotaped for later review by physicians for any abnormalities during the study.

No sedatives or sleeping pills will be given by the technician because recording "normal" sleep is best.

After the Test

Your study will end at approximately 5:30 a.m. Your technician will remove the monitoring devices and allow you to "wash up." You will complete a post-sleep questionnaire.

Test Results

Your referring physician will receive a copy of the results approximately 5 to 7 business days after your study date. Please contact your physician's office to schedule an appointment to discuss the results of your study.

Questions

For questions regarding your appointment, call 312-926-2650 during business hours: Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.