A child affected by sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea or insomnia, may have problems related to learning, behavior and mood. In our pediatric polysomnography laboratory (sleep lab), Connecticut Children’s offers testing (sleep studies) and treatment for disorders that disturb sleep, including:

  • Sleep apnea (central and obstructive)
  • Sleep hypoventilation
  • Sleep hypoxemia
  • Sleep-related movement disorders

Our sleep technologists are trained to help children feel relaxed and secure while the sleep study is performed. A technologist monitors your child’s activity throughout the duration of the sleep study. After the study, this information is analyzed by our board-certified sleep physician. The results are then shared with your child’s primary care physician, who will recommend a treatment plan.

Sleep studies require a referral from a provider. 
 

How to Prepare for a Sleep Study

Please note: One parent/guardian must stay overnight with patients who are under 18 years old.  
 

What to Bring

  • Loose, comfortable, two-piece pajamas
  • Socks or slippers
  • A favorite blanket, stuffed toy or pillow
  • A DVD or other quiet time activities
  • Insurance card

Please note: Before your appointment, you may be instructed to bring additional items.
 

Before the Sleep Study

Your child should avoid caffeine (unless instructed by your child’s primary care physician) and follow his or her normal sleep routine 48 hours before the study. Detailed preparation instructions will be shared with you before the study.
 

During the Sleep Study

One parent or guardian is required to stay with the child at all times during the sleep study. Each patient room is equipped with comfortable sleeping areas for the patient and caregiver, plus access to a bathroom.

When you arrive for the study, you will speak with the sleep technologist about your child’s medical history and sleep habits. The technologist can answer any questions you may have about the study.

You will then be taken to the patient room, where your sleep technologist will set up the necessary equipment. The sleep technologist will advise when to begin your normal bedtime routine.

Throughout the duration of the study, the technologist will monitor your child from a separate area within the facility. The sleep technologist may occasionally enter the room to adjust equipment.

Once the study is complete, the sleep technologist will enter the room to remove the equipment. The parent/caregiver will then be asked to complete a short questionnaire.
 

After the Sleep Study

After the study, this information is analyzed by our sleep physicians. The results are then shared with your child’s referring physician and primary care physician, who will recommend a treatment plan. Please contact your referring physician for the results of your child’s sleep study.