Polysomnographic Technologist

Physical Demands
Stands, turns, bends, stoops, lifts, climbs, and uses many physical motions in performing day-to-day activities. Must be able to stand for
extended periods of time and do a great deal of walking without experiencing undue fatigue. May be exposed to communicable disease or radiation.

Work involves being able to perceive the nature of sounds at normal speaking levels, with or without correction.  Must demonstrate the ability to communicate, speak, and enunciate to express/exchange ideas and detailed information in person and on the telephone.  Work requires a minimum standard of visual acuity, with or without correction, with the ability to adjust the eye to bring an object into sharp focus, i.e. shift gaze from viewing a computer monitor to forms that are closer to compare data at close vision.  Work requires 10 hour night shifts.

Mental Demands
Must demonstrate keen mental faculties/assessment and decision making abilities.  Must demonstrate superior communication/speaking/enunciation skills to receive and give information in person and by telephone. Must demonstrate strong written and verbal communication skills.  Must possess emotional stability conducive to dealing with high stress levels.  Must demonstrate ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.  Attention to detail and the ability to multi-task in complex situations is required.   

Must have the ability to integrate a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology with sleep/wake pathology. Attention to detail is  critical, since the quality of data from the polysomnogram is solely the responsibility of the technologist. Must be able to maintain vigilance in a non-stimulating environment. Must be able to assimilate data from several sources and anticipate initiation of care, in accordance with protocols, to prevent harm to the patient. Must know when to consult the physician regarding the patient’s care; must react quickly and calmly in emergency situations.

Special Demands
Must possess superior customer service skills and professional etiquette.  Must possess proficient knowledge and ability to use a computer (must be keyboard proficient) and other office technology (i.e., telephone, fax, etc.).  Must have intermediate knowledge of MS
Outlook, Word, and Excel.  

Must be able to operate equipment and utilize computer technology essential to the quality of the information obtained during the polysomnograms. Must have the ability to integrate a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology with sleep and wake pathology.