Sleep Services

Sleep Services

Commitment to Excellence

Hansen Family Hospital is accredited by Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC) for compliance with a comprehensive set of standards. ACHC is a third-party accreditation organization that has developed the highest national standards that providers are measured against in order to illustrate their ability to effectively and efficiently deliver quality healthcare products and services to consumers.

What Does it Mean for you?

Accreditation requires healthcare organizations to demonstrate compliance with specific quality and process standards. By choosing a healthcare provider that has achieved ACHC accreditation, you can take comfort in knowing that you will receive the highest quality of care. If you have any concerns about the product or service that you receive from Hansen Family Hospital, you may contact ACHC directly at (855) 937-2242.

Home Sleep Testing

This test is a device that you take home with you, and it records the oxygen, heart rate, and breathing patterns to analyze your sleep for sleep disordered breathing (apneas). This is a economical choice for patients that may have some of the basic symptoms of sleep apnea and have generally good health. By doing this your doctor can see if there is a need to have a formal sleep study. Every patient is different and so please let your doctor assist you in making the right decision for you. 

Sleep Studies 

A sleep study, known as polysomnography, is required to determine the presence of any sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, excessive leg movements, etc. 

During a full sleep study, the patient's brain wave activity is monitored to determine the various sleep stages. Eye activity, heart rate, airflow from the mouth and nose, chest and abdomen movement, oxygen levels in the blood, body position, and muscle movements are all monitored throughout the test. This is all accomplished pain-free, with the use of patches and belts.

Sleep Apnea

Apnea is from the Greek word meaning "lack of air." It is estimated that 9% of all males and 4% of all females have some form of sleep disorder. One of the most common sleep disorders, and potentially life threatening, is sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is defined as the cessation of breathing for at least 10 seconds during sleep. This causes a drop in oxygen in the blood, and an interruption in sleep patterns. Patients generally awaken and still feel tired no matter how much time they have spent in bed. This is known as Excessive Daytime Sleepiness, (EDS). 

Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

• Excessive daytime sleepiness. Generally, a "tired feeling" all the time or at inappropriate time
• Morning headaches
• Loud snoring with periods of silence or "gasps"
• Dozing while driving
• Memory and/or judgement problems
• Irritability
• Personality changes

Risk Factors for Sleep Apnea

• Obesity: 20% or greater of ideal body weight
• Large neck girth: 17 inches or greater in males, and 16 inches or greater in females
• Male gender
• Anatomic abnormalities, such as large tonsils, adenoids, etc.
• Family history
• Alcohol or sedative use
• Lung disease 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about sleep studies

"Can I sleep in any position during the test?"
Yes, you are encouraged to sleep in your normal sleeping positions. However, sometime during the test, the technician may have you change positions.

"Can I use the bathroom during the night?"
Yes, you may use the bathroom as many times as needed throughout the night. The technician will assist you to the bathroom, if necessary, where you will be left in private.

"Can I take my normal medications?"
Yes, please bring whatever medications or prescriptions are normally taken. Continue to use your medications as prescribed by your physician unless otherwise directed.

"How long does the test last?"
The testing process begins at your normal bedtime. Six hours of recorded sleep is recommended to make an accurate diagnosis. Generally you can return to work the next morning after the test.

"What if my test indicates a sleeping problem?"
Your physician will consult you regarding your results and treatment options. Keep in mind that sleep disorders are easily treated.

THE TESTING PROCESS USUALLY IS COMPLETED IN ONE NIGHT WITH THE ABILITY TO GO TO WORK AFTER THE STUDY.