If you've been referred for an in-lab sleep study, it's normal to feel unsure about what to expect. At uNITE Sleep Centers, we make the experience as simple, private, and stress-free as possible.
Here's what your night will actually look like.
Before You Arrive
Once your referral is confirmed and your insurance verified, our team will contact you to schedule your study. You'll receive instructions on what to bring and how to prepare.
Bring:
• A photo ID and insurance card
• Comfortable sleep clothes
• Any medications you take at night
• Your own pillow if preferred
Try to avoid caffeine and alcohol the day of your study. And arrive on time - our team will be ready for you.
Check-In and Setup
When you arrive, you'll be welcomed by a registered sleep technologist. We'll guide you to your private room and walk you through the process.
The room looks more like a quiet hotel suite than a clinic. Once you're settled, we'll apply a few non-invasive sensors to measure your:
• Breathing
• Oxygen levels
• Brain activity
• Heart rate
• Body position and movement
This process usually takes 30 to 45 minutes. After that, you're free to relax, read, or watch TV until bedtime.
During the Study
While you sleep, our licensed technologists monitor your vitals in real time from another room. You won't be disturbed unless something needs adjusting.
The goal is to capture a full night's worth of data so your provider can make an accurate diagnosis. Most patients fall asleep faster than they expect.
In the Morning
You'll wake up around 6:00 AM, have your sensors removed, and be free to leave. There's no recovery time - you can usually return to your normal routine right away.
Your study will be scored and reviewed by a board-certified sleep physician. Results are then sent to your referring provider.
Why an In-Lab Study?
In-lab testing offers more detailed data than a home test. It's the best option for patients with:
• Complex or mixed sleep symptoms
• Possible central sleep apnea
• Coexisting heart, lung, or neurological conditions
• Previous inconclusive home test results
If your doctor recommended an in-lab study, it's because they want the clearest picture of your sleep health.