Sleep Laboratory Technologist
Quick Facts
Median Salary$66,220
Most Common EducationHigh school or GED
Projected 10-Year Growth+10.61%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment
What They Do
A Sleep Laboratory Technologist works within sleep clinics with patients with known or suspected sleep disorders. Schedules and coordinates patient assessment, testing, results reporting, treatment and follow up. Performs polysomnographic testing. Performs routine maintenance and calibration of the test equipment to ensure its proper operating condition.
Core Tasks:
- Count numbers of chromosomes and identify the structural abnormalities by viewing culture slides through microscopes, light microscopes, or photomicroscopes.
- Arrange and attach chromosomes in numbered pairs on karyotype charts, using standard genetics laboratory practices and nomenclature, to identify normal or abnormal chromosomes.
- Apply prepared specimen and control to appropriate grid, run instrumentation, and produce analyzable results.
- Examine chromosomes found in biological specimens to detect abnormalities.
- Select appropriate culturing system or procedure based on specimen type and reason for referral.
- Harvest cell cultures using substances such as mitotic arrestants, cell releasing agents, and cell fixatives.
- Analyze chromosomes found in biological specimens to aid diagnoses and treatments for genetic diseases such as congenital disabilities, fertility problems, and hematological disorders.
- Summarize test results and report to appropriate authorities.
- Prepare biological specimens such as amniotic fluids, bone marrow, tumors, chorionic villi, and blood, for chromosome examinations.
- Select or prepare specimens and media for cell cultures using aseptic techniques, knowledge of medium components, or cell nutritional requirements.
- Input details of specimen processing, analysis, and technical issues into logs or laboratory information systems (LIS).
- Prepare slides of cell cultures following standard procedures.
- Input details of specimens into logs or computer systems.
- Select appropriate methods of preparation and storage of media to maintain potential of hydrogen (pH), sterility, or ability to support growth.
- Describe chromosome, FISH and aCGH analysis results in International System of Cytogenetic Nomenclature (ISCN) language.
- Develop, implement, and monitor quality control and quality assurance programs to ensure accurate and precise test performance and reports.
- Evaluate appropriateness of received specimens for requested tests.
- Stain slides to make chromosomes visible for microscopy.
- Create chromosome images using computer imaging systems.
- Determine optimal time sequences and methods for manual or robotic cell harvests.
- Recognize and report abnormalities in the color, size, shape, composition, or pattern of cells.
- Communicate to responsible parties unacceptable specimens and suggest remediation for future submissions.
- Select banding methods to permit identification of chromosome pairs.
- Maintain laboratory equipment such as photomicroscopes, inverted microscopes, and standard darkroom equipment.
- Identify appropriate methods of specimen collection, preservation, or transport.
- Archive case documentation and study materials as required by regulations and laws.
- Supervise subordinate laboratory staff.
- Develop and implement training programs for trainees, medical students, resident physicians or post-doctoral fellows.
What to expect as a Sleep Laboratory Technologist
1Earn a High school or GED Diploma
21% of people achieve this level of education.
2Gain skills and experience
See Sleep Laboratory Technologist related courses on Tallo
3Land a job
181 openings for Sleep Laboratory Technologists
Career Progression
in United States (Nation)
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