Polysomnography has emerged as a unique profession for performing the technical evaluation of a broad range of sleep disorders. The field of polysomnography (PSG) involves the evaluation of many physiological parameters during sleep to produce a quantitative “sleep study.” PSG evaluations are necessary to document sleep disorders and to assist physicians in identifying sleep issues and the appropriate treatment. The disruption of proper sleep can complicate or cause many chronic disorders and conditions. There is a critical need for well-trained healthcare professionals in the area of polysomnography. The field of sleep studies, or polysomnography, is a rapidly growing area of health professions. Estimates reflect over 20,000 sleep labs and sleep centers are currently performing sleep diagnostics and the needs continue to grow for credentialed individuals interested in the field of sleep medicine. The program is applying for accreditation through the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).
This program offers an accelerated option for currently licensed respiratory care practitioners who are interested in a career in sleep medicine. Certified Respiratory Therapists (CRT) and Registered Respiratory Therapists (RRT) may enter the program in Term 3. They may be awarded Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) for RT, BPCS, HLTH, and HIT coursework included in the Polysomnographic Technology course of study.
This program’s second term courses are typically offered in the fall term only. This may delay a student’s program start date. Please check with an Academic Coach for more information.
Students must be in good physical and psychological health. Students may be asked to provide documentation of a recent physical examination. Many health programs require the student to be able to safely lift and/or move a minimum of 50 pounds. Reasonable accommodations are made for students with disabilities. However, some disabilities may prohibit students from completing program specific competencies or gaining employment. Students with disabilities that may interfere with completing program competencies are advised to contact the School of Health, Wellness & Public Safety (HWPS) Office for more information.
Criminal Background
Most of the health programs in HWPS require students undergo the New Mexico Department of Health caregivers criminal history screening program. This involves state and federal felony criminal background checks with fingerprints. This must be completed prior to starting their program or prior to beginning their clinical experiences. Students with a disqualifying conviction can appeal some of those convictions through the New Mexico Department of Health. Depending on the program, students may or may not be allowed to remain in the program pending appeal. Students who do not successfully appeal a disqualifying conviction will not be allowed to start or remain in the program. A successful appeal does not guarantee eligibility for licensure after graduation in professions that require licensure.
Other Compliance Requirements
Many of the health programs in HWPS require students to undergo a routine urine drug screen, provide documentation of current immunizations, have a current Healthcare Provider Basic Life Support (CPR) certificate and other training prior to beginning the program or beginning clinical education, all of which, along with the criminal background check, are verified through the Office of Verification and Compliance.
Program Fees
Program fees cover costs incurred on behalf of the student for student-issued equipment, background checks, drug screens, etc.
Transportation
Students are responsible for their own transportation to off-campus training sites. (i.e. clinical courses at hospitals, internships, etc.)
Some courses are not eligible for Financial Aid. Please check the list here when considering a course.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the CNM Polysomnographic Technology, Associate of Applied Science degree are eligible for employment by sleep labs and centers within New Mexico and throughout the nation. Graduates are eligible to take the Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (RPSGT) Examination through the Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologist (BRPT). Graduates who take and pass this examination are registers and authorized to use the initials RPSGT to designate their status as Registered Polysomnographic Technologist.
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