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Before the sleep study is conducted, patients may be asked to keep a sleep diary. They may record bedtimes and waking times, number of hours slept and number of arousals during the sleep period.

Patients may be asked to discontinue taking some medications if it is believed that the drugs will interfere with study results. Other ways patients may be instructed to prepare for the study include:

• Maintain regular sleeping patterns in the days prior to the study to ensure natural sleep during the study.
  
  
• Refrain from eating foods or drinking beverages that contain caffeine, such as chocolate, soft drinks and coffee, because they may interfere with sleep.
  
  
• Avoid alcohol, stimulants, sedatives or other types of medications or substances that may disrupt sleep.
  
  
• Pack a bag with personal items necessary for an overnight stay (e.g., pajamas, toiletries and change of clothing).
  
  
• Take a shower or bath before the study, but do not apply oils, gels or sprays to the hair because it may prevent electrodes from sticking to the hair.
  
  
• Remove nail polish from at least two fingers to avoid problems with the pulse oximeter (device placed on a finger that measures blood oxygen levels).
  
  
• Do not wear makeup to avoid problems with electrodes on the face.