Polysomnographic Technologist

The Polysomnographic Technologist is responsible for performing polysomnographic recordings and treating patients with appropriate interventions that are used in the diagnosis of a variety of sleep disorders. The technologist works collaboratively with the patient and with members of a multidisciplinary health care team in meeting the diagnostic and therapeutic needs of the patient. The scope of practice includes: preparing patients for the polysomnogram, gathering and analyzing patient information, performing appropriate intervention and treatment, scoring polysomnographic studies and equipment management. A successful applicant who does not have current RPSGT designation will be required to obtain the RPSGT designation and registration with the Board of Polysomnographic Technologists within three months of obtaining the number of sleep lab practice hours required by the BRPT for RPSGT credentialing pathway 2.

As a Polysomnographic Technologist, you will perform polysomnographic sleep studies with pediatric and/or adult clients/patients who are experiencing a variety of sleep disorders. You will conduct transcutaneous monitoring (arterial blood gases) and other therapeutic interventions. You will also educate clients/patients and family on sleep disorders and the use, cleaning, and maintenance of sleep related equipment and coordinate funding options for patients and families referring them to the appropriate resources. You will calibrate a variety of equipment such as oximeters, multi-channel recorders, electro and spectrographic recorder; provide ongoing technical support for equipment including phone consultations and troubleshoot specialized equipment such as CPAP and BiPAP.

Active or eligible for registration with the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT); or with the applicable Alberta regulatory college for the professions of, but not limited to Respiratory Therapist, Electroneurophysiology Technologist, Electroencephalography Technologist; Registered Nurse; or Licensed Practical Nurse.

Graduate of a community college or university in a related health care field (RRT, RN, etc.). Current BCLS. Minimum 3 years' experience working in a related health field. Must have experience with computerized laboratory and physiological monitoring systems. Experience working with a complex patient population and performing analysis of sleep studies. Expertise in titrations of CPAP BiPAP, ASV, and oxygen required. Thorough knowledge of AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events and demonstrated competence in applying these rules. A successful applicant who does not have current RPSGT designation will be required to obtain the RPSGT designation and registration with the Board of Polysomnographic Technologists within three months of obtaining the number of sleep lab practice hours required by the BRPT for RPSGT credentialing pathway 2. Must be able to routinely lift up to 15 lbs. above shoulder height required. Must be able to push and pull a stretcher and other equipment required. Must be able to climb stairs required. Must be able to stand for prolonged periods as well as tolerate constant walking and bending required. Must be able to assist patients with mobility problems, including assisting patients to sit, stand and reposition required.

Working knowledge of cardiovascular, respiratory, and sleep anatomy and physiology required. Extensive knowledge of all types of sleep disorders and their relevance to patient population. Proven ability to identify sleep disorders through the analysis of the sleep study.