Visitor Monitoring

Prepare for Your Sleep Study

We ask that you check in exactly at your appointment check in time as there are preparatory procedures prior to starting the test. If, for any reason, you must cancel your appointment, please do so 24 hours before your scheduled appointment by calling 612.879.1500 or the Sleep Center after-hours line 612.879.1653.

The day of your sleep test, try to follow your normal routine as much as possible. Be sure to eat dinner before coming to your appointment. If you smoke, you will have to smoke before you enter the building. It is very important that you be nicotine-free for at least 2-3 hours before the start of your test.

What to Expect:

Upon arrival at the Sleep Center, you will be greeted by staff, who will request your photo ID, and insurance card. You will be asked to sign consent forms for the test. Your technician will escort you to your suite and help you with any questions or concerns. The procedures will be explained in detail.

After changing into your sleepwear, the setup process will begin. A technician will place small sensors (electrodes) on various parts of your body, including your scalp, forehead, near your eyes, under your nose, on your chin, legs, chest, abdomen, and finger. These sensors are essential for monitoring your sleep patterns and physiological activity throughout the night. You should not experience any pain or discomfort during this process. The technician will also introduce you to various CPAP masks, in case one is needed to support your breathing during the study. Please note that the setup process may take up to one hour.

What to Bring:

  • Wear comfortable sleepwear, such as a two-piece pajama set, sweatpants, or shorts with a t-shirt. Pants should be loose-fitting and easily pulled up to knee level to allow for proper electrode placement.
  • Any and all medications that you may require during your stay. This includes medications such as Tylenol or Advil that may be needed in the event you develop a headache. Be aware that we do not supply any medications.
  • Insurance card and photo ID
  • Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, contact lens products, comb/hairbrush, etc.)
  • Clean hair
  • A change of clothes for the following day

Optional Items:

  • Favorite pillow/blanket
  • Reading material
  • Caffeine-free snack
  • Special dietary food or items (no access to a microwave or refrigerator; coolers are welcome). If you are diabetic please feel free to bring any diabetic food items you require.

What to Avoid:

  • Naps during day of check in
  • Caffeine or alcoholic beverages during the day of check in
  • Gel/spray IN THE HAIR
  • Creams/lotions
  • Jewelry
  • Nail polish or artificial nails

The Next Morning:

Your test will end upon your awakening. Your sleep study will be reviewed by a sleep physician. If there are no significant abnormalities on the overnight portion of the study, it may be necessary to perform a multiple nap test. If your sleep doctor has ordered you to stay for a nap test, please be prepared to remain for up to 24 hours in total. The purpose of this test is to quantify sleepiness and identify any evidence of other sleep disorders.

If it is determined you do not require a multiple nap test, your monitoring equipment will be removed. Special adhesive and cream are used for the test, and there may be residual paste on your hair and/or skin. A shower is available for use in your suite.

Test Results:

Your sleep study results will be interpreted by a board-certified sleep specialist and sent to your referring physician. During your follow-up appointment, the results will be thoroughly reviewed with you. In some cases—such as with certain sleep disorders like sleep apnea—a second study may be recommended, though this is uncommon. The sleep physician will provide a final interpretation of your test findings, along with personalized recommendations, which will also be shared with your referring physician.

Please note, if you fail to show or cancel less than 24 hours before your scheduled sleep study, Noran Neurology will request $100 deposit prior to rescheduling. If you show for your rescheduled sleep study, that deposit will be refunded.