How Do I Prepare for a Sleep Study?

Download complete instructions (pdf).

Your doctor has prescribed a sleep study to help decide if you have a sleep disorder. On the day of your scheduled sleep study, the most important thing you can do is also the easiest — just follow your normal routine.

The day of the study

Remember to bathe or shower and shampoo your hair.
Avoid using any skin creams, oils or hair conditioners after bathing.
Try to eat your evening meal before 7 pm.
Avoid foods that contain caffeine (coffee, tea, colas, chocolate).
Avoid drinking alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, liquor).
You may be asked to shave if you have stubble on your face. The facial sensors adhere better to clean-shaven skin or longer facial hair.
You may be asked to remove acrylic nail polish or the acrylic nail on one of your fingers to ensure accurate monitoring.

What to bring

If you are diabetic, bring blood glucose monitor and supplies.
A current list of your medications (prescription and non-prescription). Bring any medications you may need throughout the night or the next morning.
If you'd like a snack during the evening, feel free to bring one with you.
Bring your own pajamas. Patients are not allowed to sleep only in undergarments.
Bring your favorite pillow.
Toiletries or other personal hygiene items. Showers are available for your use.

When You Arrive

The sleep center is located in a locked and secure building. When you arrive, please ring the bell. A technician will unlock the door remotely so you can enter.

The morning after your sleep study:

Some of our patients will visit with a physician during the morning between 8 and 11 am to review preliminary results of the study and discuss next steps.
Some of our patients will follow-up with the physician who referred them for the sleep study within one to two weeks after the study is complete. We will remind you to make a follow-up appointment with your physician.
A continental breakfast will be available.

If you must cancel your test, please contact us at least 48 hours in advance. Call our staff at 651-232-1212 during business hours, 8:30 am to 5 pm.