Best Practices & Methodologies Flashcards

What is the maximum acceptable electrode impedance for EEG channels in polysomnography according to AASM guidelines?

Answer: 5 kΩ

AASM guidelines specify that EEG electrode impedance should be ≤5 kΩ to ensure adequate signal quality.

During biocalibrations, a technologist asks the patient to breathe normally for 30 seconds. What is the primary purpose of this step?

Answer: Verify respiratory channel function and waveform morphology

Normal breathing during biocalibrations verifies that airflow, thoracic, and abdominal respiratory channels display appropriate waveform morphology and function.

For the left outer canthus EOG electrode (E1), what is the correct placement according to AASM specifications?

Answer: 1 cm below and 1 cm lateral to the outer canthus

E1 is placed 1 cm below and 1 cm lateral to the left outer canthus to capture vertical and horizontal eye movements.

What high-frequency filter setting is recommended for EEG channels in polysomnography?

Answer: 35 Hz

A high-frequency filter (low-pass) of 35 Hz is recommended for EEG channels to preserve physiologically relevant brain wave activity while reducing high-frequency artifact.

A technologist notices 60 Hz artifact on multiple EEG channels. Which action should be performed FIRST?

Answer: Identify and re-prep electrodes with high impedance readings

High electrode impedance is the most common cause of 60 Hz (electrical interference) artifact; correcting impedance at affected electrodes should be the first step.

When placing chin EMG electrodes for polysomnography, where is the submentalis electrode placed?

Answer: 1 cm above the inferior edge of the mandible on the midline

The AASM-recommended submentalis EMG electrode is placed 1 cm above the inferior edge of the mandible on the midline.

What is the standard recording epoch length used for scoring polysomnography studies?

Answer: 30 seconds

The standard epoch length for PSG scoring is 30 seconds, as defined by AASM scoring rules.