Pediatric Sleep Studies
What is a Sleep Study?
A sleep study is a test used to assess a child’s breathing patterns while they sleep. Often, sleep-related issues go unnoticed yet can have a significant impact on a child’s health. For more information, refer to the section on Sleep Disordered Breathing in children.
How is a Sleep Study Performed?
The sleep study typically takes place overnight in our hospital’s sleep lab. Around the child’s usual bedtime, our technicians will apply sensors to monitor various functions as the child sleeps. You’ll return home in the morning, and we’ll follow up with the results.
What Sensors are Used in a Sleep Study?
Our sleep technicians will set up a study tailored to your child. A Cardiorespiratory Study takes about 15-20 minutes to set up, while a full Polysomnography may take up to an hour. This setup, done while the child is awake, is painless. If needed, we may apply the sensors after the child falls asleep.
Most children undergo a Cardiorespiratory Sleep Study, which includes:
- Thoracic and Abdominal Bands: To monitor breathing by tracking chest and tummy movements.
- ECG Electrodes: To measure heart rhythm.
- Oxygen Sensor (SpO2): To check blood oxygen levels.
- Carbon Dioxide Sensor (End-Tidal CO₂): To measure waste gas.
- Nasal Cannula: To assess airflow from the nose.
- Continuous Video and Audio Recording: To capture sleep behavior.
Some children may require a Full Polysomnography Study, which includes additional monitoring:
- EEG Sensors: Small electrodes placed on the head to measure brain activity.
- EOG Sensors: Positioned near the eyes to record eye movements.
- Chin EMG Sensors: To monitor chin muscle activity.
For EEG setup, our staff will measure and mark the head, clean those areas, and attach sensors with a special paste, securing them under a light cap. Don’t worry if any sensors come loose, as our trained staff will monitor the study all night.
Does a Sleep Study Involve Injections or Medications?
No, there are no injections or medications involved in a sleep study.
About the Sleep Lab at BLK Super Specialty Hospital:
BLK Super Specialty Hospital houses a state-of-the-art pediatric sleep lab—the first of its kind in Northern India. We use the latest EMBLA 7000 system for comprehensive sleep study recordings, offering oximetry, Cardiorespiratory, and Full Polysomnography studies, along with diagnostic and non-invasive titration studies. Pediatric patients are evaluated in an environment tailored specifically for children, unlike adult sleep labs.
Important Information for Your Child's Sleep Study:
Please arrive on time to allow your child to settle before bedtime. One parent may stay overnight with the child, but unfortunately, we cannot accommodate both parents or siblings.
What to Bring for the Sleep Study:
- Nightwear (e.g., pajamas, night suits)
- Comfort items like soft toys, tablets, music players
- Essentials for your child, like nappies, formula, bottles, etc.
- Any necessary meals or snacks for you and your child
- Any medical equipment, such as CPAP, BiPAP, or VPAP
