If you have a nursing degree, you will need to attend a program that is specialized in polysomnographic nursing. This will help you to enter into the field and help other professionals determine the sleep problems a patient is having. You are also able to upgrade to a polysomnographic technician. In order to do so, you will need to complete a couple of courses.
Credentials
To work in the field as a polysomnographic tech, you will need to obtain the right training. It isn't required that you be a registered nurse to enter into this field. But if you happen to be an RN, you can take specific courses to help you acquire certification as a polysomnographic technician. To begin a program, you will have to first obtain a high school diploma or GED. So if you are already ahead and have a nursing degree, this is sufficient. You will also have to pass the three-semester PSGT program.
Experience
While you are studying in your courses, you will need to obtain hands-on clinical training. Just like with nursing, your clinical training will offer you direct hands-on training with actual patients. You'll receive training while on the floor and you will be required to perform duties like getting leads attached to the patient in order to monitor their heart, and a variety of other sensors that are used to monitor the brain activity of the patient while they're sleeping. You will learn about the monitoring of patients while they are asleep, keeping an eye on the equipment and instructing the patients about the procedures.
