This program is designed for currently licensed respiratory care practitioners who are interested in a career in sleep medicine.
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. This program will prepare CRT or RRT credentialed individuals to take the Sleep Disorders Specialist exam offered by the National Board for Respiratory Care.
Special Requirements
Program Entry Registration Screening
This is a “Coordinated Program Entry” program; students must complete a pre-registration screening process administered through the Coordinated Program Entry Office before being eligible to register for program courses.
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.
Physical Requirements
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 HWPS Office at (505) 224- 4111 for more information.
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.).
Graduates of the CNM Sleep Disorders Specialist Certification are employed by sleep labs and centers within New Mexico and throughout the nation. Graduates are eligible to take the Sleep Disorders Specialist Examination. They are also encouraged to continue education toward a Bachelor of Science degree in respiratory therapy, general science, education or management to pursue leadership positions in the field.
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