The WatchPAT ONE is a highly regarded home sleep apnea test designed to detect both obstructive and central sleep apnea. It utilizes proprietary PAT (Peripheral Artery Tone) technology to monitor changes in blood flow, ensuring accurate results. Like other home sleep apnea tests, it is easy to use in the comfort of your own home, eliminating the need for a sleep center visit. To achieve the most accurate results, it’s essential to properly use the device on the night of your test.
When your WatchPAT ONE Home Sleep Apnea Test Arrives
To get started, you will need to download the WatchPAT app either by scanning the QR code on the side of the box or, if you receive a text message before it arrives, by following the link in the message. Your clinic may also have a short pre-test questionnaire for you to fill out after registering, helping to gather important sleep data before your test. It will only take a few minutes to complete. Detailed instructions are included in the box, and if you need any assistance, your clinic should be there to provide support. On the night of the test, simply follow the instructions to ensure accurate results.
- Download app
- Complete assigned questionnaires
- Follow instructions
- Contact clinic with any questions
Probes used for WatchPAT sleep apnea test
- Finger Probe: Attach the probe to your nondominant hand. Consider your pinky finger if you have larger fingers.
- Wrist Watch: Secure the wrist watch firmly, but not too tight, to avoid discomfort.
- Chest Sensor: Thread the wire under your shirt (if you're wearing one) and attach the sensor to your chest using the adhesive. If you're unsure about the attachment, consider using medical tape to ensure it stays in place.
Tips for a Successful WatchPAT Test
- This is a one-time test, requiring as much sleep data as possible to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
- Carefully read and follow all instructions provided with your shipment.
- Plug your phone into a charging station for the duration of the test to ensure proper transmission.
- Do not remove the monitoring devices once applied. Only in the morning, after you have ended the test should the device be taken off your body.
- If you need to go to the bathroom, take all monitoring devices with you, including your phone, and make sure the devices do not get wet. Once you return to your bed, be sure to plug your phone back in to maintain an adequate charge.
- Use the provided battery to ensure your test runs smoothly throughout the night. This will help maintain the device’s functionality and allow for proper data transmission.
- Sleep alone on the night of the test to minimize potential disruptions. This will help ensure the most accurate sleep data, leading to a more reliable analysis of your home sleep test results.
- On the night of your test, eliminate all sources of external electromagnetic interference. The WatchPAT uses Bluetooth and Wi-Fi to transmit recorded data, and external transmissions can interfere with the signal, making your test invalid. Sources of interference include, but are not limited to, smart TVs, Wi-Fi boosters, laptops, cordless phones, microwaves, baby monitors, and wireless speakers.
- Once your clinic confirms that the data has been successfully transmitted, you may dispose of the monitoring device. For more information on the WatchPAT ONE Green Program, refer to the included instructions, or you can dispose of the device through your electronic recycling program.
After your WatchPAT Home Sleep Apnea Test
After you have completed the test in the morning, your results will be transmitted and securely stored by your clinic on a cloud-based server. Your clinic will then review the results to ensure there were no errors during the test before sending them to the interpreting doctor. Depending on the clinic, the interpretation of the home sleep apnea test may take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, and you will receive your results once they are ready.
Any clarifications needed will be provided to ensure you fully understand what is happening during your sleep. Your interpreter may also highlight potential therapy options at this stage, offering a brief explanation of possible treatments to help you take the next steps.