Preparing for Your Sleep Study

Prior to your study at the Center for Sleep Disorders, we will call to pre-register you.

You should:

• Contact your primary care physician or insurance provider to obtain any necessary approvals. Sleep studies are classified as outpatient procedures for your insurance company.
• Tell the center staff if you're taking medicine prescribed by your doctor. We may need to contact your doctor about some of your current medications.

Before You Arrive for Your Sleep Study

72 hours before:

Avoid stimulants or sedatives

48 hours before:

Avoid alcoholic beverages

24 hours before:

Avoid caffeine (coffee, cola, tea, or chocolate)

The day of your study:

Avoid naps during the day or early evening (your test is performed while you sleep)

Most important, come ready for bed.

What You Should Bring

• Any medicines you currently take; we have no access to medication at the Sleep Center.
• All toiletry items, such as:
  • soap
  • shampoo
  • toothbrush and toothpaste
  • a hair dryer/curling iron
  • razor and shaving cream
• Two-piece sleep apparel, such as:
  • pajamas
  • shorts and a T-shirt
  • a sweat suit
• A snack, if you wish to have one before bed.
• A book, crossword puzzle, or magazines to help you relax before bed.

What to Expect

We make your stay with us as “homelike” as possible.

• Each of our bedrooms is furnished with a double bed and bathroom.
• A shower is available.
• We provide towels, washcloths, pillows and blankets, but you're welcome to bring your own.
• We keep the room temperature at 68 to 70 degrees for proper operation of computerized equipment, so you may want to bring comfortable sleeping apparel.

Where to Go on the Night of Your Sleep Study

1. Park in any of the hospital visitor parking lots.
2. Enter the 100 Medical Arts Building.
3. Take the elevator to the third floor, suite 318.

Get directions to the Center for Sleep Disorders at UPMC St. Margaret.

Download a for driving directions and parking (PDF).

When You Arrive at the Center

• Someone from our staff will escort you to your room.
• You will receive a description of the procedure.
• You will complete a questionnaire about your activities that day.

If you have any questions, please call the Center for Sleep Disorders at 412-784-4380.