Neurology Systems

How to prepare to HSAT Test

What is a HSAT Test?

The HSAT, also called “ambulatory” or “at home” sleep study, is a diagnostic sleep test sleep where professionals and doctors diagnose obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). OSA is a condition characterized by upper airway obstruction that reduces inspiratory airflow during sleep or repeated episodes of apnea (a period of no breathing, a lack of breath movements). It’s evolved as a convenient alternative to the traditional overnight in-laboratory attended sleep study-polysomnography in certain patients.

The HSAT records:

 Chest movement (effort)

 Airflow (breathing)

 Snoring

 Sleeping position

 Oxygen saturation

 Heart rate

It allows sleep medicine specialists to identify times when you have shallow breathing that causes a decline in your oxygen levels or times when you stop breathing.

How to prepare for your HSAT test?

You or a close family member will be asked to sign a legal document called a consent form. It gives healthcare providers permission to do the procedure. It also explains the problems that may happen, and your choices. Make sure all your questions are answered before you sign this form.

To prepare for a test, try to optimize the conditions that will enhance sleep during the study. Consider waking a little earlier than usual. This will build sleep drive and make it easier to fall asleep that night. Do not take naps during the day. Avoid the consumption of all caffeine—skipping coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, energy drinks, and other caffeinated products. Caffeine has a half-life that can last up to six hours, blocking the adenosine signal for sleep, and it may make it hard to sleep.

Be active, following your routine exercise regimen. Eat meals and snacks as you normally would. Eat dinner before coming to an in-center sleep study. If you normally consume alcohol in the evening, discuss with your sleep physician whether you should adhere to this routine. In most cases, you should not.

Spend the last one to two hours of the day relaxing, preparing your body and mind for sleep. Put away work. Avoid anything that might prompt anxiety or be upsetting (such as reading the news or social media). It can be a nice time to read a book, or listen to relaxing music. Minimize exposure to screen light, and go to bed close to your normal bedtime. Make sure that you have the feeling of sleepiness or drowsiness before preparing to start the test.

Do not go to bed earlier than usual. If anything, stay up a little later this will help you to fall asleep faster, even with the testing equipment applied.

 

Please note:

Home sleep ambulatory test (HSAT) studies are either performed at the Neurology Mobile System Associates offices in 10661 SW 88 Th St, Suite 104 MIAMI, FL 33176, or in another Medical Office, appointed for your convenience – Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment – If you anticipate being late please call to reschedule at 305 2707771 – If you need to cancel your appointment, please do so at the same phone number, at least 24 hours in advance.


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