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An Overnight Desaturation Study is a test to measure the oxygen content (saturation) of your blood while you are sleeping. This is important because your oxygen saturation may drop during deep sleep. Knowing this will enable us to better meet your oxygen needs, which can mean a major improvement in your overall health. It may also be done to validate your need for home oxygen for insurance purposes. This test can either be done in your own home (outpatient) or here at GMH (if you are an inpatient).
The Test:The test involves wearing a sensor taped to one of your fingers while you sleep. The sensor is connected to a device, called a Pulse Oximeter, that continuously records your oxygen concentration (saturation) and heart rate. After the test is done, a report will be sent to your doctor. If you are doing this at home, a respiratory therapist will instruct you on how to set up the equipment when you are ready for sleep.
Instructions for home tests:
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- Turn the Pulse Oximeter on. The switch is in the upper left front corner. Make sure that it is plugged into a wall outlet. (It does have a battery backup, but it will only run for about two hours - not all night.)
- Connect the sensor cable to the cable from the Pulse Oximeter. The connectors are shaped so that they can only be connected one way.
- Place the sensor on your finger, as demonstrated by the Therapist. You should hear the Pulse Oxymeter beeping in time with your heartbeat. If not, you need to reposition the sensor.
- Once the sensor is positioned correctly, you will see your pulse rate and oxygen saturation displayed on the Pulse Oxymeter.
You can turn off the beeping by rotating the white dial counterclockwise several turns.
Do not switch off the Pulse Oxymeter until the end of the test. If you need to get up during the night, disconnect the sensor from the cable to the Pulse Oxymeter. Otherwise, the test will be incomplete, and we will not get the information your doctor needs to properly evaluate your oxygen needs.
There are several alarms programmed into the Pulse Oxymeter. These alarms can be temporarily disabled, but only for two minutes. This may be annoying, but keep in mind, they are there for a reason. If you have any questions or problems with the equipment, please contact your home health care provider.
- Pulmonary Function Testing
- See The Pulmonary Function Lab
- Overnight Desaturation Test
- Other Tests/Therapies
- Back to Pulmonary Services
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