FAQs

How do I prepare for the study?

  • No alcohol, caffeine containing beverages (such as coffee, tea, soda), or chocolate (foods or drinks) for at least 24 hours before your study.

  • Eat your regularly scheduled meals the day of your sleep study.

  • The night before your sleep study, go to sleep at your normal bedtime. DO NOT take naps the day of the study.

  • Shower and wash your hair prior to the study. 

  • DO NOT use make-up, lotion, powders, perfume, and cologne or aftershave on your skin, or conditioners, hair spray or gels in your hair.

What do I bring?

You should bring your own sleepwear, toiletries, medication list and valid health card. Outside bedding is not allowed.  You may also bring a tablet, phone or reading material to view before lights out. If you must have these devices with you, please make sure they are turned off during testing.  

Does the test hurt?

No. The test is non-invasive and painless. However, the presence of wires and electrodes occasionally affects the sleep of some patients. The electrode wires and other cables are sufficiently long to allow one to sleep in their preferred position.  If you are concerned about your ability to fall asleep during the testing procedure, we suggest that you deprive yourself of some sleep the night before the test by waking up earlier than usual.

Normally I have a glass of wine or alcoholic beverage before bed. Am I allowed to do that before my sleep study?

No. Alcohol intake before driving to the lab is illegal and bringing alcohol into the lab is forbidden.

Do you offer showering facilities?

No.

Do I have access to WI-FI?

No, wifi is not available.

What happens after the sleep study?

Your sleep study will be read by one of our Sleep Physicians and a final report will be sent to your healthcare provider after the study. A follow-up visit will be scheduled with your Sleep Physician to discuss the results of your study and any treatment that is needed.

What time do I arrive?

Patients will be advised of their arrival time during the booking process.  Typically, patients arrive between 8:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.  There is free parking in front of the building.  Patients will be informed of any expected protocols or restrictions to follow (e.g. wearing a mask) at the time of scheduling their sleep study.

How long is the sleep study?

The hookup procedure starts between 9:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. and will take roughly 30 to 45 minutes. Your study is performed in a private bedroom. The testing procedure with lights out is normally between 10:30 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. and will continue until about 5:30 a.m. If you need to wake up at a specific time in the morning, please inform the technician. The technologist will be in the observation room during the night monitoring the patients.

Although you are not expected to go to sleep at a specific time, you will be encouraged to fall asleep as soon as possible to maximize the amount of sleep time during which you can be observed. 


Can I take prescription medication before the study?

Yes, patients must follow their prescription schedule as per their own health care provider.  It is important to inform your sleep technician of any medications taken at bedtime. The clinic does not provide medications.

How can I help my child get ready for the sleep study?

On the day of the sleep study, try to keep your child’s routine as normal as possible. For example, if your child usually takes a nap during the day, he or she should take a nap on the day of the study. 

  • Intake of sodas or drinks that contain caffeine should be avoided.

  • You will want to explain the study to your child in a manner he or she can understand. Tell them that you or a family member will stay with them during the study.

  • Let the sleep laboratory know the medications your child is taking.

What time can I leave in the morning?

Once the technician wakes you up in the morning, they will assist you in removing the electrodes. You will be able to visit the restroom.  You may complete the post sleep study questionnaire and then you are free to leave. 

Can I go to the restroom during my sleep study?

If you need to use the restroom or need assistance during the night, use the bedside monitor and press the page button. If you cannot find the button, quietly call your technician’s name. This will signify to the technologist that you are awake and need assistance. The technologist will then disconnect the equipment, so you are able to carry the small portable head box with you.