Polysomnographic Technologist

KEY FUNCTION:

Provide comprehensive evaluation and treatment of sleep disorders which involves polysomnography, diagnostic and therapeutic services, comprehensive patient care and direct patient education.

REPORTING:

Under the general direction of the Clinical Manager, Respiratory Therapy.

DUTIES:

1. Collect and analyze patient information in order to identify and meet the patient’s needs; explain the procedure and orient the patient to the sleep centre.
2. Determine final testing parameters and procedures in conjunction with laboratory protocols.
3. Select the appropriate equipment and calibrate for testing to determine proper functioning; make adjustments if necessary.
4. Apply electrodes and sensors according to accepted standards.
5. Perform routine Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) interface fitting, desensitization, and other therapeutic modalities.
6. Perform various diagnostic tests (e.g. Nocturnal Polysomnography, Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT), Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT), parasomnia studies, CPAP, oxygen titration, etc.) to ensure collection of appropriate data.
7. Perform appropriate physiological calibrations to ensure proper signals; make adjustments if required.
8. Follow ‘lights out’ procedures to establish and document baseline values (e.g. body position, oxyhemoglobin saturation, respiratory and heart rates, etc.).
9. Perform data acquisition while monitoring study-tracing quality to ensure signals are artifact-free; identify, correct and document artifact.
10. Document sleep stages and clinical events, changes in procedure and other significant events in order to facilitate scoring and interpretation of results.
11. Implement interventions when required (i.e. positive airway pressure, oxygen administration).
12. Follow ‘lights on’ procedures to verify integrity of collected data and complete the data collection process.
13. Score clinical events adhering to American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) scoring parameters and standards.
14. Perform routine cleaning and disinfection procedures, routine equipment care, maintenance and inventory evaluation.
15. Respond to patient inquiries and provide education utilizing sleep centre protocols.
16. Determine and align improvement projects with HSN’s Strategic Plan; monitor and adjust to achieve goal outcomes.
17. Contribute to learner development by providing academic support, mentorship, preceptorship and supervision as required.
18. Participate in education and training specific to current, relevant federal and provincial health and safety legislation, standards and guidelines.
19. Educate and promote health, safety and wellness in the work place.
20. Represent the department or program on various committees and in meetings as required.
21. Perform other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS

EDUCATION AND TRAINING:

1. Current certification with the American Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT).
2. Current certification in Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) is required.
3. Ministry of Labour “Worker Health and Safety Awareness in 4 Steps” training certificate is required.

EXPERIENCE:

1. Minimum of one (1) year practical and related experience working in a sleep lab within a health care environment.

KNOWLEDGE/SKILLS/ABILITIES:

1. Demonstrated knowledge of AASM scoring parameters.
2. Demonstrated knowledge of cleaning and disinfection procedures.
3. Demonstrated excellent critical thinking, judgment and proven analytical skills.
4. Demonstrated training, experience or utilization of lean methodology for process improvement.
5. Demonstrated ability to independently identify issues, plan improvements, measure success and continue improvement.
6. Demonstrated excellent computer skills with proficiency in Microsoft Office software (e.g. Word, Excel, Power Point and Outlook) and patient information systems.
7. Demonstrated superior interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal.
8. Demonstrated effective time management and organizational skills with the ability to organize and prioritize as required.
9. Demonstrated discretion and maturity when handling confidential information.
10. Demonstrated commitment to the safety of co-workers and patients.

PERSONAL SUITABILITY:

1. Successful Vulnerable Sector Check is required.
2. Demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional development.
3. Demonstrated professionalism in dealing with confidential and sensitive issues.
4. Demonstrated positive work record and good attendance record.
5. Proven ability to work independently and in a team environment.
6. Ability to use tact and discretion in dealing with health care providers and patients.
7. Demonstrated ability to perform with minimal supervision; to prioritize duties.
8. Ability to meet the physical and sensory demands of the job.

Selection Process: Candidates will be selected for this position on the basis of their skill, ability, experience and qualifications as identified in the resume and completed Application Form submitted. The Hospital reserves the right to conduct a formal interview where required. This posting is for an existing vacancy.

Health Sciences North is committed to providing accommodations to applicants with disabilities to enable their participation in the recruitment, assessment, selection and hiring stages of employment.

HSN THANKS ALL APPLICANTS.
ONLY THOSE SELECTED FOR INTERVIEWS WILL BE CONTACTED.
WE WILL NOT ACCEPT APPLICATIONS AFTER THE CLOSING DATE AND TIME.