Sec. 10.32.06.05. Scope of Practice

A. A licensed polysomnographic technologist may practice only under the supervision of a licensed physician.

B. A licensed polysomnographic technologist may practice only in a hospital sleep laboratory or a stand-alone sleep center.

C. The scope of practice of a licensed polysomnographic technologist includes and is limited to the following:

(1) Monitoring and recording physiologic data during sleep, including sleep-related respiratory disturbances;

(2) Using data collected under §C(1) of this regulation to assist a licensed physician in the diagnosis and treatment of sleep and wake disorders;

(3) Assisting with the diagnosis and treatment of individuals who suffer from sleep disorders as a result of developmental defects, the aging process, physical injury, disease, or actual or anticipated somatic dysfunction;

(4) Observing and monitoring physical signs and symptoms, general behavior, and general physical responses to polysomnographic evaluation, and determining whether initiation, modification, or discontinuation of a treatment regimen is warranted;

(5) Using evaluation techniques that include limited cardiopulmonary function assessments, the need and effectiveness of therapeutic modalities and procedures, and the assessment and evaluation of the need for extended care; and

(6) Using the following techniques, equipment, and procedures:

(a) Continuous positive airway pressure, bi-level positive airway pressure titration, or adaptive servo-ventilation on spontaneously breathing patients;

(b) Supplemental low flow oxygen therapy during polysomnogram;

(c) Capnography during polysomnogram;

(d) Cardiopulmonary resuscitation;

(e) Pulse oximetry;

(f) PH probe placement and monitoring;

(g) Esophageal pressure;

(h) Sleep staging, including surface electroencephalography, surface electrooculography, and surface submental electromyography;

(i) Surface electromyography of arms and legs;

(j) Electrocardiography;

(k) Respiratory effort, including thoracic and abdominal;

(l) Plethysmography blood flow;

(m) Snore monitoring;

(n) Audio or video monitoring;

(o) Implementation of a written or verbal order from a licensed physician that requires the practice of polysomnography;

(p) Monitoring the effects a nasal device used to treat sleep apnea has on sleep patterns provided that the device does not extend into the trachea; and

(q) Monitoring the effects an oral device used to treat sleep apnea has on sleep patterns provided that:

(i) The oral device does not extend into the trachea;

(ii) A dentist has evaluated the structures of the patient's oral and maxillofacial region for purposes of fitting the oral device;

(iii) A dentist made or directed the making of the oral device; and

(iv) A dentist directs the use of the oral device.

D. The scope of practice of a polysomnographic technologist does not include administering medications.