Pediatric Sleep Lab Mount Zion

Pediatric sleep studies at Mount Zion

A sleep study, or polysomnography, helps us learn more about your child’s sleep issues so we can find the right diagnosis and treatment. Our lab is one of the few in the Bay Area specializing in overnight sleep studies for kids.

During the sleep study, a registered pediatric polysomnographer (sleep study specialist) monitors your child while they sleep using sensors and video. You stay with your child through the night.

How do I prepare for my child’s sleep study?

The day of the polysomnography, please:

• Keep your child’s routine the same, but avoid naps
• Don’t allow your child to consume anything with caffeine
• Eat dinner before arriving at the sleep lab (we don’t provide meals)
• Do not braid your child’s hair or apply hair products

Your child must be healthy for the study. If your child is ill, please notify us immediately so we can reschedule.

What should I bring to my child’s sleep study?

We recommend packing an overnight bag with:

• Comfortable pajamas
• Toothbrush, toothpaste and other hygiene items
• Any medications, formula, special food or medical equipment your child needs
• Comfort items, such as a special pillow, blanket or toy

What happens during the sleep study?

We place sensors on your child before they go to sleep. The sensors are attached with tape or gel and don’t hurt. While your child sleeps, these sensors record their:

• Brain waves (electroencephalogram or EEG)
• Breathing
• Chest movements
• Oxygen and carbon dioxide levels
• Electrical activity in the heart
• Leg and jaw movements

The technician monitors your child all night as they sleep. If they are having difficulty breathing, the technician may offer oxygen or continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). The technician wakes your child around 6 a.m. and removes all the sensors.

When can I expect the sleep study results?

After the study, our sleep medicine specialist reviews your child’s data and creates a report.

You should receive the results within two weeks. If you haven’t received the results by then, please contact the doctor who referred your child for a sleep study.