RST Study Preparation and Instrumentation Questions and Answers

Question 1

When preparing a patient for a polysomnogram, what is the maximum acceptable impedance level for scalp and facial electrodes to ensure a high-quality recording?

Accepted Answer

5 kΩ (kilo-ohms)

Answer

10 kΩ (kilo-ohms)

Answer

15 kΩ (kilo-ohms)

Answer

1 kΩ (kilo-ohm)

Question 2

A 6-year-old child is scheduled for a polysomnogram and is visibly fearful of the electrodes and sensors. Which of the following is the MOST effective technique to facilitate the hookup process?

Accepted Answer

Use a "tell-show-do" approach, demonstrating the sensors on a doll or the parent first.

Answer

Ask the parent to leave the room to avoid distractions.

Answer

Inform the child that the procedure is painless and they must hold still.

Answer

Restrain the child gently to complete the hookup as quickly as possible.

Question 3

Which of the following statements BEST describes the primary operational difference between a thermal sensor (thermistor) and a thermocouple for monitoring respiratory airflow?

Accepted Answer

A thermistor measures temperature changes based on resistance, while a thermocouple measures temperature changes based on voltage.

Answer

A thermocouple provides a quantitative airflow measurement, while a thermistor provides only a qualitative measurement.

Answer

A thermistor is placed in the nose, while a thermocouple is placed in front of the mouth.

Answer

A thermocouple is used to detect apneas, while a thermistor is used to detect hypopneas.

Question 4

A patient is scheduled for an MSLT following an overnight PSG. The technologist is reviewing the patient's medication list and sleep diary. Which of the following findings would be MOST critical to report to the physician before starting the MSLT?

Accepted Answer

The patient has been taking an over-the-counter antihistamine for allergies daily.

Answer

The patient's sleep diary shows an average of 6.5 hours of sleep per night for the past two weeks.

Answer

The patient has a history of claustrophobia but tolerated the PSG well.

Answer

The patient took a prescribed dose of zolpidem two nights ago.

Question 5

During physiological calibrations prior to starting a polysomnogram, the technologist asks the patient to look left, then right, then up, then down. What is the primary purpose of this specific set of maneuvers?

Accepted Answer

To verify correct signal response and polarity of the EOG channels.

Answer

To test the integrity of the respiratory effort belts.

Answer

To establish a baseline for the patient's resting heart rate.

Answer

To confirm proper functioning of the audio-video recording system.

Question 6

According to the AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and Associated Events, what are the recommended low frequency (LFF) and high frequency (HFF) filter settings for the electrooculogram (EOG) channel?

Accepted Answer

LFF = 0.3 Hz, HFF = 35 Hz

Answer

LFF = 1.0 Hz, HFF = 100 Hz

Answer

LFF = 10 Hz, HFF = 70 Hz

Answer

LFF = 0.1 Hz, HFF = 15 Hz