How to Prepare for Your Sleep Study

Everything you need to know to ensure your test goes smoothly

Here are answers to questions you may have in preparation for your sleep study at Lehigh Valley Hospital:

• Do I need a referral?
• What should I do on the day of the study?
• What time will the study end?
• When will I see the sleep specialist?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Forms you may need

Do I need a referral?

If you need a referral for office visits or other outpatient tests, you will also need one for your sleep study. If you are scheduled for a consultation with a sleep physician after your sleep study, a separate referral will be required.

Check with your insurance carrier to see if your plan covers polysomnographic testing. The sleep study is an outpatient diagnostic test and will be billed under procedure code 95810 or 95811. If you have questions regarding your coverage, call the toll-free number on the back of your insurance card. For more information about referral for the sleep study, call Lehigh Valley Hospital at 610-402-CARE.

What should I do on the day of the study?

• Avoid coffee, tea or soft drinks containing caffeine after noon.
• Do not take any naps.
• Bathe and shampoo your hair. Because electrodes are applied, it’s important for your skin and scalp to be clean.
• Men should shave. You are not required to remove a mustache or beard. Antiperspirant/deodorant is permissible. Do not wear cologne.
• Women should remove all makeup and avoid perfumes/colognes. The use of antiperspirant/deodorant is permissible.
• Take your prescription medications unless instructed otherwise by your physician. If you regularly use sleeping medications, bring them with you.
• Eat you evening meal before reporting for your test.
• Bring the following items with you:
• Comfortable nightwear (pajamas, nightgown, shorts, t-shirt, etc.)
• The pillow you usually sleep on
• Personal toiletries (we supply towels, wash cloths and soap)
• Arrive at your scheduled appointment time. There is no need to arrive early.

What time will the study end?

Most studies end by 6:30 a.m. The study may end earlier or later depending on how well you sleep through the night. Requests to end the study earlier because of work or school commitments can be accommodated.

When will I see the sleep specialist?

At the LVH-17^th and Chew Sleep Center, consultations with the sleep specialist are scheduled in the morning. You can leave the Sleep Center and return at your scheduled time or stay in your room until your appointment. At the LVH-Muhlenberg Sleep Center, consultations are often scheduled for another day. You’re free to leave immediately after your study.

What is your cancellation policy?

If you are unable to keep your appointment, please give us at least 24 hours notice so we may offer your spot to another patient.

Forms you may need

To help you prepare for your visit, you may download, read and/or fill out these forms prior to your arrival.

• Patient Questionnaire
• Pediatric Patient Questionnaire
• Compliance with Appointments
• Instructions for Your Sleep Study
• Instructions for Your Child's Sleep Study
• Directions to the Sleep Disorder Center

ARTICLE TOOLS: