Sleep Technology

Terms & Definitions

Revised 2016
Sleep Technology Terms and Definitions

Second Edition

Published by the American Association of Sleep Technologists – Darien, Illinois

Copyright © 2012-2016 American Association of Sleep Technologists, 2510 North Frontage

Road, Darien, IL 60561-1511, U.S.A.

Copies of this book are available from the American Association of Sleep Technologists in the
U.S.A.

All rights reserved. No parts of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by
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Technologists. Translations to other languages must be authorized by the American Association
of Sleep Technologists.

Correspondence regarding copyright permissions should be directed to:

AAST Coordinator
2510 North Frontage Road
Darien, IL 60561-1511
U.S.A.

www.AASTWeb.org

Recommended Citation:

American Association of Sleep Technologists. Sleep Technology Terms and Definitions. 2nd ed.
Darien, IL: American Association of Sleep Technologists, 2016.
Preface
The American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST) developed the Sleep Technology
Terms and Definitions handbook to provide the sleep technology profession with consistent
and accurate explanations of key terms that are used in the routine practice of sleep technology.
This reference will help both new and veteran sleep technologists understand and communicate
key concepts using a common professional language.

The AAST Board of Directors acknowledges the extensive time and effort that the members of
the AAST Educational Products Committee put forth to develop this reference tool for sleep
technologists. The Board also thanks Rita Brooks, MEd, RST, RPSGT, REEG/EPT and
Cynthia Mattice, MS, RST, RPSGT. We thank these individuals for their efforts on behalf of
the profession.
 Sleep Technology Terms & Definitions
May 2016

Term: Actigraphy
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A technique of motion detection used to record activities during sleep and waking.
Reference: Uhles, M. & Malhotra, R. (2012). Movement disorders. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 152). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Adaptive Servoventilation

Abbreviation: ASV
Definition: A mode of PAP therapy that provides varying amounts of inspiratory support (on top of
expiratory pressure) during different phases of periodic breathing.
Reference: Harris, N. & Javaheri, S. (2012). Advanced PAP therapies. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 445). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Advanced Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder

Abbreviation: ASWPD
Definition: A stable advance of the major sleep period characterized by habitual sleep onset and wake-up
times that are 2 or more hours earlier relative to conventional and desired times.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Alternating Current Amplifier

Abbreviation: AC Amp
Definition: An amplifier designed to process rapidly fluctuating signals. Contains both high and low
frequency filters.
Reference: Tyner, F., Knott, J., & Mayer, W. (1983). Fundamentals of EEG technology, Vol.1: Basic
concepts and methods (p. 3). New York: Raven Press.

Term: Alpha Rhythm

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An EEG pattern consisting of trains of sinusoidal 8 – 13 Hz activity recorded over the occipital
region with eye closure, attenuating with eye opening.
Reference: Berry, R.B., Brooks, R., Gamaldo, C.E., Harding, S.M., Lloyd, R.M., Marcus, C.L. and Vaughn,
B.V. (2016). The AASM manual for the scoring of sleep and associated events: Rules,
terminology and technical specifications, Version 2.3. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep
Medicine.

1
Term: American Academy of Sleep Medicine
Abbreviation: AASM
Definition: The United States based professional medical society that sets the clinical and technical
standards for sleep medicine, including the accreditation of sleep facilities and A-STEP
education programs. The AASM improves sleep health and promotes high quality patient
centered care through advocacy, education, strategic research, and practice standards.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.aasmnet.org/

Term: American Association of Sleep Technologists

Abbreviation: AAST
Definition: The professional society whose mission is to promote and advance the sleep technology
profession through the continued development of educational, technical, and clinical excellence
in sleep health.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.aastweb.org/

Term: American Board of Sleep Medicine

Abbreviation: ABSM
Definition: The professional society established to encourage the study, improve the practice, elevate the
standards of sleep medicine, and issue certificates of special knowledge in sleep medicine.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.absm.org/

Term: American Medical Association

Abbreviation: AMA
Definition: The largest United States based association of medical doctors and students. Their mission is to
promote the science of medicine for the betterment of the public health.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.ama-assn.org/

Term: American Sleep Apnea Association

Abbreviation: ASAA
Definition: A non-profit organization dedicated to educating the public about sleep apnea.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.sleepapnea.org

Term: Amplitude
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The vertical height of a wave, representing the electrical force or voltage of the wave.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 636). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Analog to Digital Converters

Abbreviation: ADC
Definition: Converts an analog (continuous) signal into numeric form by assigning a numeric value, at
predetermined intervals, to the amplitude of the analog waveform.
Reference: Walther, F. (2012) Digital polysomnography. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 281). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

2
Term: Antidepressant
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Psychiatric medication used to alleviate mood disorders. These meds influence REM sleep by
lengthening REM latency, decreasing REM density and decreasing REM percentage particularly
during the first third of the night.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 636). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Apnea Index

Abbreviation: AI
Definition: Number of obstructive apneas plus the number of central apneas plus the number of mixed
apneas times 60 divided by total sleep time in minutes.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Apnea-Hypopnea Index

Abbreviation: AHI
Definition: The number of obstructive apneas, central apneas, mixed apneas, and hypopneas multiplied by
60 divided by total sleep time in minutes.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Arousal
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An abrupt shift in EEG frequency lasting for at least 3 seconds with at least 10 seconds of stable
sleep preceding the change in N1, N2, N3, or R. Scoring of arousal during REM requires a
concurrent increase in submental EMG lasting at least 1 second.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Artifact
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Extraneous signals appearing within any of the recorded parameters of the polysomnogram.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Polysomnographic recording procedures. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 330). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Asystole
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Cardiac pauses greater than 3 seconds for ages 6-adult.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

3
Term: Atrial Fibrillation
Abbreviation: A-Fib
Definition: An irregularly irregular ventricular rhythm associated with replacement of consistent P waves by
rapid oscillations that vary in size, shape, and timing.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Beta Rhythm

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An EEG rhythm consisting of 13-30 Hz activity.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Bigeminy
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A heart arrhythmia in which an abnormal heartbeat occurs every other concurrent beat.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 637). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Biocalibrations
Abbreviation: Bio-cals
Alternate
Term: Patient calibrations
Definition: The series of instructions that are designed to determine that the sensors are correctly picking up
signals from a patient, the polarity of the signals is correct, that the strength of the signal is
sufficient, and that there is no unwanted interference.
Reference: Patrick, R. (2012). Recording the biopotentials of sleep. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong,
T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 289). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams
& Wilkins.

Term: Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure

Abbreviation: BPAP
Definition: Provides pressure at one level during inspiration positive airway pressure (IPAP) and at a lower
pressure during expiration positive airway pressure (EPAP).
Reference: Rosenberg, R., Whitmore, H., Yvanauskas, C. (2012). Titration of continuous positive airway
Pressure and application and adjustment of positive airway pressure devices. In: Mattice, C.,
Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 416).
Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists

Abbreviation: BRPT
Definition: The Board of Registered Polysomnographic Technologists (BRPT)™ is an independent, non-
profit certification board that administers the RPSGT ™ credential. The BRPT™ develops,
maintains and administers the RPSGT™ exam and establishes the BRPT™ Standards of
Conduct for credentialed technologists.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.brpt.org

4
Term: Bradycardia
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An EKG rhythm of less than 60 beats per minute during wake and less than 40 beats per minute
during sleep for ages 6 years through adult.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Bruxism
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Grinding the teeth and clenching the jaw during wakefulness and sleep; often associated with
arousals during sleep.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 637). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Calibration
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Application of a 50 microvolts (negative) DC voltage to all channels in order to document
correct signal polarity amplitude and time constant.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Polysomnographic recording procedures. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T., Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 326). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Capnography
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Carbon dioxide (CO2) monitoring, either transcutaneous or end tidal.
Reference: Kline, C., Krupski, T. (2012). Pediatric polysomnography. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 505). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Cataplexy
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: More than one episode of generally brief (< 2 minutes), usually bilaterally symmetrical sudden
loss of muscle tone with retained consciousness. The episodes are precipitated by strong
emotions, usually positive, with almost all patients reporting some episodes precipitated by
emotions associated with laughter.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Catathrenia
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Sleep related groaning.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

5
Term: Central Apnea
Abbreviation: CA
Definition: Cessation of respiratory drive resulting in the lack of respiratory movements.
Reference: Patrick, R. (2012). General human physiology for the sleep technologist. In: Mattice, C., Brooks,
R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 82). Philadelphia:
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Cheyne-Stokes Respiration

Abbreviation: CSR
Definition: Episodes of greater than or equal to 3 consecutive central apneas and/or central hypopneas
separated by a crescendo and decrescendo pattern changes in breathing amplitude with a cycle of
greater than or equal to 40 seconds. Score CSR when there are greater than or equal to 5 central
apneas and or central hypopneas per hour of sleep associated with the crescendo/decrescendo
breathing pattern recorded over greater than or equal to 2 hours of monitoring.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Chin EMG

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A recording of muscle activity from the mentalis and submentalis consisting of electrodes placed
above and below the inferior mandible, utilized in the scoring of sleep stages and bruxism.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

Abbreviation: COPD
Definition: A disease state characterized by airflow limitations that is relatively irreversible.
Reference: Krupski, T. (2012). Sleep and medical disorders. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 202). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Abbreviation: CFS
Definition: Persistent or relapsing fatigue that does not resolve with sleep or rest.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Circadian Rhythm

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Endogenous, near 24 hour biological rhythm that exists in all living organisms. It is
synchronized to the 24 hour light-dark cycle
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

6
Term: Complex Sleep Apnea
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Newly described respiratory pathology in which the application of CPAP for the treatment of
obstructive sleep apnea illicit central apneas in the patient. This pathology is often seen in heart
failure patients.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 638). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Continuing Education Credit

Abbreviation: CEC
Definition: A unit that corresponds to actual contact hours, equivalent to time spent in hours maintaining
education and knowledge in a respective field. Units are acceptable if the activity has been
granted hours by a credit-granting organization.
Reference: Retrieved from
http://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/488356/PDFs/AASTCECAppInfo.pdf?t=1463691477740

Term: Continuous Positive Airway Pressure

Abbreviation: CPAP
Definition: CPAP is a therapeutic treatment for sleep apnea. A CPAP circuit (machine, air hose and patient
interface) delivers continuous air pressure during inspiration and exhalation to keep the upper
airway open.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Sleep technology: Past, present and future. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 4). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Cycles Per Second

Abbreviation: CPS
Definition: The number of times a waveform repeats itself in one second. 'Cycles per second' is synonymous
with hertz.
Reference: Kreinin, I. (2012). Sleep across the lifecycle. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 16). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Delta Wave

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Extremely slow waves with a frequency < 4 Hz.
Reference: Tyner, F., Knott, J., & Mayer, W. (1983). Fundamentals of EEG technology, Vol.1: Basic
concepts and methods (p. 3). New York: Raven Press.

Term: Differential Amplifier

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An amplifier which processes signals from 2 electrodes, an exploring electrode and a reference,
to an output that is proportional to the differences in voltages received by its two inputs.
Reference: Walther, F. (2012). Digital polysomnography. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 277). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

7
Term: Dominant Posterior Rhythm
Abbreviation: DPR
Definition: The dominant reactive EEG rhythm in children seen over the occipital regions in relaxed
wakefulness with eyes closed and attenuates with eye opening or attention.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Durable Medical Equipment

Abbreviation: DME
Definition: The term “durable medical equipment” refers to items used in the patient's home, whether
furnished on a rental basis or purchased.
Reference: Retrieved from www.cms.gov/center/dme.asp

Term: Electrocardiogram
Abbreviation: ECG, EKG
Definition: Records electrical activity produced by the cells within the atrium and ventricles of the heart
producing specific waveforms and complexes.
Reference: Endee, L. (2012). Cardiac anatomy and physiology. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 75). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Electroencephalogram
Abbreviation: EEG
Definition: A recording of the electrical activity of the brain, measured by the application of surface
electrodes to determine sleep stages and wakefulness.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 639). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Electromyogram
Abbreviation: EMG
Definition: A recording of electrical activity of the muscles measured by the application of surface
electrodes to monitor specific muscle groups during sleep.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 639). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Electrooculogram
Abbreviation: EOG
Definition: A recording of electrical activity of the eyes measured by the application of surface electrodes to
the outer canthus of the eyes to monitor various eye movements related to wakefulness and sleep
stages.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 639). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

8
Term: End-Tidal CO2
Abbreviation: PetCO2
Definition: A CO2 measurement from a side-stream nasal cannula or a direct measurement of exhaled CO2
from a tracheostomy or an endotracheal tube. End-tidal CO2 measurements are subject to breath-
to-breath fluctuations and may be affected by varying respiratory patterns such as tachypnea,
sighs, or mouth breathing.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 639). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: ENT
Alternate
Term: Ear Nose and Throat, Otolaryngologist
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A medical specialist who diagnoses and treats disorders of the ear, nose, throat, head and neck.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/ent

Term: Entrain
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: To modify the phase or period of an intrinsic circadian rhythm, or biological clock, in order to
align with external environmental cues, such as light.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 639). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Enuresis
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Recurrent, involuntary bedwetting during sleep in a child older than 5 years of age.
Reference: Eckhardt, W., Mattice, C. (2012) Parasomnias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 131). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Epoch
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A segment of time during a polysomnogram (recording), the most common epoch length is 30
seconds.
Reference: Whitmore, H. (2012). Adult sleep scoring. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 360). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Epworth Sleepiness Scale

Abbreviation: ESS
Definition: A measurement tool for determining subjective sleepiness. The chance of falling asleep in eight
different situations is scored on a scale from 0 to 3, and totaled to get an overall sleepiness rating.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 639). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

9
Term: Excessive Daytime Sleepiness
Abbreviation: EDS
Definition: The experience of persistent sleepiness that is often not resolved with adequate sleep. EDS is
often the presenting complaint in the sleep clinic.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 639). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Expiratory Positive Airway Pressure

Abbreviation: EPAP
Definition: Positive air pressure delivered during the expiratory phase of respiration.
Reference: Yvanauskas, C., Whitmore, H., Rosenberg, R. (2012). Titration of continuous positive airway
Pressure and application and adjustment of positive airway pressure devices. In: Mattice, C.,
Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 416).
Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire

Abbreviation: FOSQ
Definition: Clinically validated, self-reporting measurement designed to assess the improvement of
excessive sleepiness, based on multiple activities of daily living.
Reference: Trimble, M., Zumstein, R. (2012). Developing and maintaining therapeutic compliance. In:
Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p.
428). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

Term: Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Abbreviation: GERD
Definition: Gastric juices flow backward (i.e. reflux) from the stomach through the lower esophageal
sphincter (LES) and into the esophagus during sleep.
Reference: Patrick, R. (2012). General human physiology for the sleep technologist. In: Mattice, C., Brooks,
R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 84). Philadelphia:
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act

Abbreviation: HIPAA
Definition: Enacted by Congress in 1996 to amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to improve portability
and continuity of health insurance coverage in group and individual markets. Among this acts
many standards is that of a patient’s “right to privacy”.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/hipaa/

Term: High Frequency Filter

Alternate
Term: Low Pass Filter
Abbreviation: HFF
Definition: A filter used to attenuate signals above the cut-off frequency. Usually described in hertz (Hz) or
cycles per second (CPS). At a particular setting, frequencies at or above the cut-off frequency
will be attenuated with increasing degree dependant on the frequency response curve.
Reference: Walther, F. (2012). Digital polysomnography. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 428). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

10
Term: Hertz
Alternate
Term: Frequency, Cycles Per Second
Abbreviation: Hz
Definition: Measure of signal frequency in cycles per second.
Reference: Walther, F. (2012). Digital polysomnography. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 279). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Home Sleep Apnea Testing

Abbreviation: HSAT
Definition: A limited polysomnographic recording performed outside of the sleep center that meets
minimum criteria for CPT codes 95800, 95801 or 95806.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Hypercapnia
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Elevation of the arterial carbon-dioxide tension (PaCO2) above 45mm Hg, the generally
accepted upper limit of normality for adults.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Hypersomnia
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Increased tendency or need to fall asleep.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Hypocretin
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A hypothalamic neurotransmitter found in the cerebral spinal fluid that is responsible for
producing and sustaining wakefulness. Regulates wakefulness in REM sleep as well as appetite
and energy expenditure. A lack of hypocretin can account for the excessive daytime sleepiness in
cataplectic attacks seen in narcolepsy; also referred to as orexin.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 640). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Hypnogogic Hallucinations

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Vivid dreamlike images or sounds that occur at sleep onset during the progression from
wakefulness to sleep.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 640). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins

11
Term: Hypnagogic Hypersynchrony
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Paroxysmal bursts or runs of diffuse, high-amplitude, sinusoidal 75 to 350 μV, 3 – 4.5 Hz waves
which begin abruptly and are usually widely distributed but often maximal over the central,
frontal, or frontocentral scalp regions.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Hypnogram
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A graphical representation of sleep stages which occur throughout the night.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Hypnopompic Hallucinations

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Vivid dreamlike images or sounds that occur at awakening during the progression from sleep to
wakefulness.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 640). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Hypopnea
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A specified reduction in airflow lasting at least 10 seconds in adults or the equivalent of two
breaths in children with associated O2 desaturation or arousal.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 641). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Hypothalamus
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A basal part of the diencephalon that lies beneath the thalamus on each side, forms the floor of
the third ventricle, and includes vital autonomic regulatory centers.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/hypothalamus

Term: Hypoventilation
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Unusually slow and shallow breathing that can lead to a buildup of CO2 in the blood.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 641). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Hypoxemia
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An abnormally low amount of oxygen in the blood; usually refers to arterial blood.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 641). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

12
Term: Hypoxia
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: O2 levels below the control point, signaling the respiratory control system to compensate with
increased ventilation.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 641). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Idiopathic Hypersomnia

Alternate
Term: Idiopathic CNS Hypersomnolence, NREM Narcolepsy
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A dyssomnia of unknown cause characterized by constant and severe excessive sleepiness. This
disorder is classified into two separate diagnoses according to the patient’s sleep time:
Idiopathic Hypersomnia with Long Sleep Time; and Idiopathic Hypersomnia without Long Sleep
Time.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Impedance
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An electrical circuit opposition to the flow of alternating current by the combination of resistance
and capacitance.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 641). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Inion
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: One of four standard landmarks used to facilitate the measuring process in the 10-20 system. A
bony cranial protuberance in the lower occipital region, the inion is the ridge or knob at the back
of the head.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Patient preparation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 315). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Insomnia
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Difficulty in initiating and/or maintaining sleep. A term that is employed ubiquitously to indicate
any and all gradations and types of sleep loss.
Reference: Bell, E. (2012). Insomnia. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of
sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 118). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Inspiratory Phase

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Part of the ventilatory cycle, comprised of initiation of inspiratory flow to the beginning of
expiratory flow.
Reference: MacIntyre, N.R. & Branson, R.D. (2009). Mechanical ventilation, 2nd ed. (p. 477). Philadelphia:
Saunders Elsevier.

13
Term: Inspiratory Positive Airway Pressure
Abbreviation: IPAP
Definition: The pressure in the patient circuit measured during inspiration. A pressure setting that is set
during bilevel positive airway pressure ventilation that controls pressure delivery during
inspiration.
Reference: Harris, N. & Javaheri, S. (2012). Advanced PAP therapies. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 445). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Inspiratory Positive Airway Pressure Minimum

Abbreviation: IPAP min
Definition: A setting on the brand specific ASV, BiPAP autoSV, which equates to the minimum inspiratory
pressure.
Reference: Harris, N. & Javaheri, S. (2012). Advanced PAP therapies. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 447). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Inspiratory Positive Airway Pressure Maximum

Abbreviation: IPAP max
Definition: A setting on the brand specific ASV, BiPAP autoSV, which equates to the maximum inspiratory
pressure.
Reference: Harris, N. & Javaheri, S. (2012). Advanced PAP therapies. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 447). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Intercostal Muscle

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The muscles that occupy the region between the ribs. These regions can be used as an electrode
placement to measure electromyography for respiratory effort.
Reference: Richard, C. (2012). Respiratory anatomy and physiology. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 50). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: International 10-20 System of Electrode Placement

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The International 10-20 System of Electrode Placement is a standardized method for identifying
equally spaced electrode positions on the scalp, based on four identifiable skull landmarks. This
method was developed in 1958 to provide a consistent procedure for collecting EEG data and to
develop a common terminology. The system is termed 10-20 because most measurements are
spaced either 10% or 20% of the distance between a given pair of skull landmarks.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Patient preparation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 314). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: International Classification of Sleep Disorders

Abbreviation: ICSD, ICSD-2, ICSD-3
Definition: First published in 1979, the 2005 revised edition (ICSD-2) describes more than eighty-five
diagnoses. *Note – the current version is the ICSD-3, published in 2014.
Reference: Keenan, S., Foster, R. (2012). Modern sleep medicine. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong,
T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 10). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams
& Wilkins.
14
Term: Junctional Arrhythmias
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Junctional arrhythmias can occur if the AV nodal tissue fires prematurely or if the atrial
mechanism for initiating the cardiac cycle fails. Junctional arrhythmias feature normal-
appearing QRS complexes. When P waves are seen, they will be inverted and can occur before
or after the QRS complex. This category of arrhythmias includes premature junctional
contraction (PJC), junctional and accelerated junctional rhythm and junctional tachycardia.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (pp. 348-350). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: K-Complex
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A well-delineated negative sharp wave immediately followed by a positive component standing
out from the background EEG, with total duration ≥ 0.5 seconds usually maximal in amplitude
when recorded using frontal derivations.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Landau-Kleffner Syndrome

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A childhood epilepsy syndrome characterized by loss of language skills with acquired verbal
auditory agnosia and spike and wave discharges mainly localized over the centrotemporal
regions.
Reference: Campbell, D., Davis, D. (2012). Seizures and sleep. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 196). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A syndrome of intractable seizures, mental retardation and the presence of generalized slow
spike-wave complexes at a frequency of 2.5 Hz or less.
Reference: Campbell, D., Davis, D. (2012). Seizures and sleep. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 193). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Low Frequency Filter

Alternate
Term: High Pass Filter
Abbreviation: LFF
Definition: A filter used to set a lower limit of frequencies that are let into the recording. Usually described
in hertz (Hz) or cycles per second (cps). Only signals with frequencies above that limit, called
the cut off frequency, are allowed to pass.
Reference: Walther, F. (2012). Digital polysomnography. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 280). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

15
Term: Maintenance of Wakefulness Test
Abbreviation: MWT
Definition: A series of measurements of the interval from “lights out” to sleep onset that are used in the
assessment of an individual’s ability to remain awake. Subjects are instructed to try to remain
awake in a darkened room while in a semi reclined position. Long latencies to sleep are
indicative of the ability to remain awake. This test is most useful for assessing the effects of
sleep disorders or of medication upon the ability to remain awake.
Reference: Giacomini, A., Tognoli, R., Hydes, N. (2012). Narcolepsy. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 111). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Major Body Movement

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Movement and muscle artifact obscuring the EEG for more than half an epoch to the extent that
the sleep stage cannot be determined.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Masseter
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A large muscle that raises the lower jaw and assists in mastication.
Reference: http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/masseter

Term: Melatonin
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Secretory product of the penal gland used to maintain the circadian rhythm and regulate other
hormones.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 642). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Microvolt
Abbreviation: µV
Definition: One millionth of a volt. This is a standard unit of measurement used for reading and recording
polysomnographic waves.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/microvolt

Term: Mixed Apnea

Abbreviation: MA
Definition: An apnea that is associated with absent inspiratory effort in the initial portion of the event,
followed by resumption of inspiratory effort in the second portion of the event.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 642). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

16
Term: Monitoring Time
Abbreviation: MT
Definition: Total recording time minus periods of artifact and time the patient was awake as determined by
actigraphy, body position sensor, respiratory pattern, or patient diary.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Montage
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The arrangement of the recording channel selections and their settings.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Polysomnographic recording procedures. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 326). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Multiple Sleep Latency Test

Abbreviation: MSLT
Definition: A measure of “manifest sleep tendency” consisting of five opportunities to fall asleep at regular
intervals during the day. The amount of time taken to fall asleep (sleep latency) and sleep stages
attained are typically reported. Two or more episodes of REM sleep occurring within 15 minutes
of sleep onset (SOREMPs) are supportive of a diagnosis of narcolepsy.
Reference: Giacomini, A., Tognoli, R., Hydes, N. (2012). Narcolepsy. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 111). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Mu Rhythm
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: EEG activity with an arch like morphology in the 7 to 11 Hz range, commonly 9 Hz. It has
unique reactivity that is blocked by real or imagined movement or tactile stimulation.
Reference: Tyner, F., Knott, J., & Mayer, W. (1983). Fundamentals of EEG technology, Vol.1: Basic
concepts and methods (p. 205). New York: Raven Press.

Term: Maintenance of Wakefulness Test

Abbreviation: MWT
Definition: Consists of four 40-minute trials each separated by 2 hours. Measures the ability to resist the urge
to fall asleep.
Reference: Moore, D., Thomas, S.J. (2012). Multiple sleep latency test and maintenance of wakefulness test.
In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p.
471). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Myoclonus
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Involuntary twitching of a muscle or a group of muscles.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 642). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

17
Term: Narcolepsy
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A chronic neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) despite a
restful night of sleep and sudden and uncontrollable attacks of sleep that are sometimes
accompanied by hallucinations and paralysis (atonia).
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 642). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Narrow Complex Tachycardia

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A rhythm lasting a minimum of 3 consecutive beats at a rate of greater than 100 beats per minute
with QRS duration of less than 120 milliseconds.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Nasion
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: One of four standard landmarks used to facilitate the measuring process in the 10-20 system. The
nasion is the indentation between the forehead and the nose.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Patient preparation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 315). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Nightmare
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A frightening dream that occurs during REM sleep.
Reference: Eckhardt, W., Mattice, C. (2012). Parasomnias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 131). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Nocturia
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Urination at night especially when excessive.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nocturia

Term: Nocturnal
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Of, relating to, or occurring at night.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/nocturnal

Term: Non-REM
Abbreviation: NREM
Definition: All sleep stages that are not rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. This would include Stages N1,
N2, and N3.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

18
Term: Notch Filter
Abbreviation: N/A
Alternate
Term: 50/60 Hz Filter
Definition: A filter used to eliminate noise caused by power line interference on the record, otherwise known
as 60 Hz in the United States.
Reference: Walther, F. (2012). Digital polysomnography. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 281). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Nyquist Theory

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Theory that states that the minimum sampling rate must be twice the rate of the highest
frequency sampled in order to adequately resolve the signal and prevent aliasing.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 642). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Oxygen
Abbreviation: O2
Definition: A reactive element that is found in water, in most rocks and minerals, in numerous organic
compounds, and as a colorless tasteless odorless diatomic gas constituting 21 percent of the
atmosphere, that is capable of combining with all elements except the inert gases, that is active in
physiological processes, and that is involved especially in combustion.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oxygen

Term: Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome

Abbreviation: OHS
Definition: Sleep disordered breathing characterized by obesity, hypoventilation and hypercapnia resulting
in reduction in the oxygen content or increase in the carbon dioxide content of the blood or both.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Obstructive Apnea

Abbreviation: OA
Definition: An apnea that meets the required criteria and is associated with continued or increased
inspiratory effort throughout the entire period of absent airflow.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

19
Term: Obstructive Hypopnea
Abbreviation: OH
Definition: A reduction in airflow with a minimum amplitude drop of equal to or greater than 30% of pre
event baseline and minimum duration of equal to or greater than 10 seconds for adults and
minimum amplitude drop of equal to or greater than 30% of pre event baseline and minimum
duration of equal to or greater than two breaths for children. If snoring, increase of inspiratory
flattening of the nasal pressure compared to the baseline and/or an associated thoracoabdominal
paradox occurs during the event but not during pre-event breathing score the event as an
obstructive hypopnea. The criteria used to score a respiratory event as hypopnea (either rule 1A
or 1B) should be specified in the PSG report.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Ohm
Abbreviation: Ω
Definition: A measure of the resistance to the flow of electricity.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 642). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Ohm’s Law

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A law in electricity which states that the strength or intensity of an unvarying electric current is
directly proportional to the electromotive force and inversely proportional to the resistance of the
circuit.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 643). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Oscillator
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A device or mechanism for producing or controlling oscillations; especially one for producing an
alternating current.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/oscillator

Term: Outer Canthus

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The outer corner of the eye, utilized as a landmark for the placement of EOG electrodes.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Overlap Syndrome

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A term used for patients with coexisting COPD and OSA.
Reference: Krupski, T. (2012). Sleep and medical disorders. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 203). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

20
Term: Oxygen Saturation
Abbreviation: SpO2
Definition: Oxygen saturation, as measured by a pulse oximeter, is related to the pressure of oxygen in the
blood by the oxyhemoglobin dissociation curve.
Reference: Yvanauskas, C., Whitmore, H., Rosenberg, R. (2012). Titration of continuous positive airway
Pressure and application and adjustment of positive airway pressure devices. In: Mattice, C.,
Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 414).
Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Parasomnia
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An undesirable physical phenomena that occur predominantly or exclusively during the sleep
period. Parasomnias have been classified intro three groups by the International Classification of
Sleep Disorders (ICSD), 3rd ed: NREM Related Parasomnias, REM Related Parasomnias and
Other Parasomnias.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Periodic Breathing

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Greater than or equal to 3 episodes of central pauses in respiration (absent airflow and
inspiratory effort) lasting greater than 3 seconds separated by equal to or less than 20 seconds of
normal breathing in children.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Periodic Limb Movements of Sleep

Abbreviation: PLMS
Definition: Movements of the limbs during sleep occurring with a specified frequency, duration, and
amplitude.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Periodic Limb Movement Disorder

Abbreviation: PLMD
Definition: A disorder that is characterized by periodic episodes of repetitive, highly stereotyped, limb
movements that occur during sleep (PLMS) and by clinical sleep disturbances that cannot be
accounted for by another primary sleep disorder.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

21
Term: Piezo-Electric Sensor
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Sensors consisting of Piezo-crystals which generate small voltages in response to stress or
movements.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Patient preparation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 319). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Polarity
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The condition of having positive and negative charges and especially magnetic or electrical
poles. In electroencephalography and polysomnography negative voltages deflect up.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/polarity

Term: Positive Airway Pressure

Abbreviation: PAP
Definition: The delivery of positive air pressure forming a pneumatic splint of the upper airway.
Reference: Yvanauskas, C., Whitmore, H., Rosenberg, R. (2012). Titration of continuous positive airway
Pressure and application and adjustment of positive airway pressure devices. In: Mattice, C.,
Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 411).
Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Polysomnogram
Abbreviation: PSG
Definition: A record of physiological variables during sleep obtained by polysomnography.
Reference: Whitmore, H. (2012). Adult sleep scoring. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 360). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Positive Occipital Sharp Transients of Sleep

Abbreviation: POSTS
Definition: A series of surface positive transient waveforms seen prominently in the occipital area in some
subjects. They are normal.
Reference: Tyner, F., Knott, J., & Mayer, W. (1983). Fundamentals of EEG technology, Vol.1: Basic
concepts and methods (p. 210). New York: Raven Press.

Term: Preauricular Point

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A point that is situated or occurring anterior to the auricle of the ear. In polysomnography this is
the anatomical point lateral to the cartilaginous protrusion at mid ear that is used as a reference
point in the 10-20 System for electrode placement.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012) Patient preparation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 314). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Premature Atrial Contraction

Abbreviation: PAC
Definition: A common arrhythmia that produces premature P waves, with normal QRS morphology and
normal T waves.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 644). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.
22
Term: Premature Ventricular Contractions
Abbreviation: PVC
Definition: A common arrhythmia that is produced when a contraction signal originates in the ventricle of
the heart. This arrhythmia has an absent P wave and an early and wide and/or aberrant QRS with
a compensatory pause.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 644). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Pressure Support

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The IPAP and EPAP are adjusted to maintain upper airway patency and the IPAP-EPAP
difference provides pressure support (PS) to augment tidal volume.
Reference: Harris, N. & Javaheri, S. (2012). Advanced PAP therapies. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 447). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Pressure Transducer

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A pressure transducer that measures the pressure (relative to atmospheric pressure) inside the
nasal orifice using a nasal cannula. The pressure difference across the nasal inlet during
breathing is proportional to the magnitude of airflow squared. A square root transformation of
the nasal pressure signal is proportional to airflow. The inspiratory waveform of the nasal
pressure signal exhibits a flattened pattern during airflow limitation provided the signal from the
transducer is recorded as a DC signal or as an AC signal with an appropriate low filter setting.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Pulse Oximeter

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A device that monitors changes in the color of the blood capillaries to estimate the oxygen in the
blood. This is done with a sensor which is usually attached to the patient’s finger, the signal
averaging time must be less than 3 seconds. Can detect hypoxemia and related events.
Reference: Gali, B., Gay, P. (2012). Preoperative assessment and perioperative monitoring. In: Mattice, C.,
Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 270).
Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Pulse Transit Time

Abbreviation: PTT
Definition: Pulse transit time measures the time it takes for the arterial pulse pressure wave to travel from
the aortic valve to the periphery. PTT increases during the inspiratory fall in blood pressure and
decreases during arousal induced increases in blood pressure.
Reference: Balog, M., Sheldon, S., Loghmanee, D. (2012). Parasomnias in children. In: Mattice, C., Brooks,
R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 546). Philadelphia:
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

23
Term: PVDF Sensor
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Polyvinylidenefluoride (PVDF) lm is a fluoropolymer substance that reacts to changes in
temperature when used as a thermal airflow sensor and to impedance changes when used as an
effort sensor.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: QRS Complex

Abbreviation: QRS
Definition: The EEG waveform that represents ventricular depolarization and atrial repolarization.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 644). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Rapid Eye Movement

Abbreviation: REM
Definition: Conjugate, irregular, sharply peaked eye movements with an initial deflection usually lasting
<500 msec. These eye movements are characteristic of Stage R sleep, but are not always present
in that stage.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Rapid Eye Movement Sleep

Alternate
Term: REM sleep, Stage R
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Sleep that is characterized by low amplitude, mixed frequency EEG activity and sometimes
sawtooth waves; low chin EMG tone; and rapid eye movements. This sleep stage is associated
with dreaming.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Reference Electrode

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The reference electrodes M1 and M2 are placed over the mastoid process (bone behind the
earlobe). The electrodes should be placed on the skin between the crease of the earlobe and
where the hairline begins. To decrease artifacts, the sensors should be placed over the flattest
and boniest area. M1 is placed behind the left ear and M2 is behind the right ear.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Patient preparation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 316). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

24
Term: Referential Derivation
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An exploring electrode referenced to a reference electrode in a relatively inactive location.
Example: The signal derived by comparing C3 to M2.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Patient preparation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 316). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

Abbreviation: RBD
Definition: REM sleep behavior disorder is characterized by a paradoxical increase in muscle tone and
frequent limb movements during REM sleep, elaborate, purposeful movements, vocalizations,
and occasionally violent behaviors such as punching, kicking, and/or leaping out of bed. The
motor activity is associated with dream recall as patients seem to be acting out their dreams.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 644). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Respiratory Disturbance Index

Abbreviation: RDI
Definition: The number of apneas, hypopneas and RERAs per hour of sleep.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 644). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Respiratory Effort

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Monitored using belts that are placed around the chest and abdomen attached to a sensor that
generates a respiratory effort signal that provides an indirect representation of respiratory effort
based on chest and abdominal movement.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012) Patient Preparation, In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 319). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Respiratory Effort-Related Arousal

Abbreviation: RERA
Definition: A sequence of breaths characterized by increasing respiratory effort (esophageal manometry);
inspiratory flattening in the nasal pressure or PAP device flow channel; or an increase in end-
tidal PCO2 (children) leading to an arousal from sleep. Respiratory effort related arousals do not
meet criteria for a hypopnea and have a minimum duration greater than or equal to 10 seconds in
adults or the duration of at least two breaths in children.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Respiratory Event

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A defined period of abnormal breathing, including apneas, hypopneas, RERAs, and
hypoventilation.
Reference: Maher, E., Epstein, L. (2012). Obstructive Sleep Apnea. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong,
T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 169). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams
& Wilkins.

25
Term: Respiratory Event Index
Abbreviation: REI
Definition: Total number of respiratory events scored during and HSAT recording × 60 divided by
monitoring time (MT).
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Restless Legs Syndrome

Abbreviation: RLS
Definition: An urge to move legs, usually accompanied by or thought to be caused by uncomfortable and
unpleasant sensations in the legs. Symptoms must: begin or worsen during periods of rest or
inactivity; be partially or totally relieved by movement, such as walking or stretching, or at least
as long as the activity continues; and occurs exclusively or predominantly in the evening rather
than during the day.
Reference: American Academy of Sleep Medicine. International classification of sleep disorders, 3rd ed.
Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2014.

Term: Respiratory Inductance Plethysmography

Abbreviation: RIP
Definition: A technology that generates a signal based on changes in body circumference associated with
breathing. The elastic RIP bands are embedded with wires, woven in a sinusoidal pattern, that
encircle the body. An alternating electrical current is applied to the wires, generating an
oscillating signal in response to variations in the magnetic fields associated with changes in body
circumference.
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Patient preparation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 319). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Rhythmic Anterior Theta Activity

Abbreviation: RAT
Definition: Runs of 5 – 7 Hz rhythmic theta activity maximal over the frontal or frontocentral regions that
indicate drowsiness and a progression from wake to stage N1 sleep in adolescents and young
adults.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 645). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Sawtooth Waves

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An EEG pattern consisting of trains of sharply contoured or triangular, often serrated, 2–6 Hz
waves maximal in amplitude over the central head regions and often, but not always, preceding a
burst of rapid eye movements.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Second Degree AV block, Type 1

Alternate
26
Term: Wenckebach
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A block of the AV node causing progressively prolonged PR intervals and resulting in a dropped
QRS.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 351). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Second Degree AV block, Type 2

Alternate
Term: Mobitz II
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A block of AV conduction in the His Bundle or Bundle Branches, resulting in a number of P
waves without a ventricular (QRS) response.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 351). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Sensitivity
Abbreviation: Sens or S
Definition: A ratio of input voltage (μV) and output amplitude (mm). S = V/A
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 645). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Septoplasty
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A surgical procedure to correct deformities in the nasal septum.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/septoplasty

Term: Sharp Wave

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A fast frequency (70-200 msec.) waveform with a pronounced peak that is recorded in the EEG
channels, usually indicating epileptiform activity.
Reference: Tyner, F., Knott, J., & Mayer, W. (1983). Fundamentals of EEG technology, Vol.1: Basic
concepts and methods (p. 187). New York: Raven Press.

Term: Sinus Arrhythmia

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Normal, minimal variations in the SA node’s pacing rate pattern in association with respiration.
There is a small increase in HR during inspiration and a small decrease during expiration.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 346). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Sinus Bradycardia

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An ECG rhythm during sleep with a sustained heart rate of less than 40/minute for ages 6
through adult.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 344). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.
27
Term: Sinus Pause
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A missed pacing stimulus from the SA node producing a pause, during which the heart is
electrically silent.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 346). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Sinus Tachycardia

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An ECG rhythm during sleep with a sustained sinus heart rate of greater than 90 beats per minute
for adults.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 344). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: 60 Hz Filter
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Selectively reduces the amplitude of waves 58 – 62 Hz (60 Hz interference comes from electrical
artifact or improperly grounded electrical equipment).
Reference: Walther, F. (2012). Digital polysomnography. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 281). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Architecture

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Sleep architecture parameters generally include latencies, summation of time spent in each sleep
stage and body position, and the percent of total sleep time spent in each sleep stage.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Report generation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 381). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Cycle

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The cyclic alternation between NREM sleep and REM sleep representing ultradian processes
within sleep.
Reference: Kreinin, I. (2012) Sleep Across the Life Cycle, In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 16). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Deprivation

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An insufficient duration of sleep (quantitative), a fragmented or interrupted sleep period
(qualitative), or a combination of both factors.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 645). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

28
Term: Sleep Diary
Alternate
Term: Sleep Log
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A self-reported log of a patient’s wake/sleep pattern over a period of time, allowing the physician
the ability to view the patient’s sleep schedule over a period of time.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 645). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Disordered Breathing

Alternate
Term:
Abbreviation: SDB
Definition: Patterns of abnormal breathing including snoring, RERAS, hypopneas, and apneas.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 645). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Efficiency

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Percent sleep efficiency = (TST/TRT x 100)
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Sleep Enuresis

Alternate
Terms: Enuresis nocturna; nocturnal bedwetting, night wetting
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The involuntary voiding of urine during sleep that occurs at least twice a month in a child 5 or
older.
Reference: Servidio, K. (2012). Nonrespiratory Pediatric Sleep Disorders. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 531). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Fragmentation

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The interruption of sleep with frequent, brief arousals characterized by increases in EEG
frequency or bursts of alpha activity and occasionally, transient increase in skeletal muscle tone.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 645). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Hygiene

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The behavioral patterns that is consistent with sleeping well.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 645). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

29
Term: Sleep Latency
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The time between lights out and sleep onset, defined as the first epoch of any stage of sleep,
recorded in minutes.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Sleep Onset

Abbreviation: SO
Definition: The start of the first epoch scored as any stage other than stage W. (In most subjects this will
usually be the first epoch of stage N1.)
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Sleep Onset REM Period

Abbreviation: SOREM
Definition: A REM period that occurs during the first 15 minutes of an MSLT nap; two or more SOREMPs
on MSLT are highly indicative of narcolepsy.
Reference: Moore, D., Thomas, J. (2012). Multiple Sleep Latency Test and Maintenance of Wakefulness
Test. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd
ed. (p. 468). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Paralysis

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Inability to move or speak, sometimes accompanied by the sensation of inability to breathe for a
few seconds or a few minutes that occurs during the transition from wakefulness to sleep or from
sleep to wakefulness.
Reference: Giacomini, A., Tognoli, R., Hydes, N. (2012). Narcolepsy. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 111). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Related Eating Disorder

Abbreviation: SRED
Definition: Recurrent episodes of involuntary eating and drinking during arousals from sleep with
problematic consequences.
Reference: Uhles, M., Malhotra, R. (2012). Movement disorders. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 144). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Related Movement disorders

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Repetitive, stereotyped, and rhythmic motor behaviors (not tremors) that involve large muscle
groups and occur predominantly during drowsiness or sleep.
Reference: Uhles, M., Malhotra, R. (2012). Movement disorders. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 146). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

30
Term: Sleep Spindle
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A train of distinct waves with frequency 11 – 16 Hz (most commonly 12 – 14 Hz) with a
duration ≥0.5 seconds, usually maximal in amplitude over the central derivations.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Sleep Starts

Alternate
Term: Hypnic jerks
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Sudden brief contractions of multiple muscles of the legs, arms or trunk at sleep onset; may be
asymmetric or associated with a brief impression of falling. They are a normal phenomenon and
may occur in as many as 60% of subjects of all ages.
Reference: Uhles, M., Malhotra, R. (2012). Movement disorders. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 150). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Sleep Terrors

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Sudden, abrupt, striking, and frightening arousals associated with profound autonomic
discharges and behavioral manifestations of intense fear.
Reference: Balog, M., Sheldon, S., Loghmanee, D. (2012). Parasomnias in children. In: Mattice, C., Brooks,
R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 150). Philadelphia:
Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Slow Eye Movement

Alternate
Term: Slow rolling eye movement
Abbreviation: SEM
Definition: EOG events consisting of conjugate, reasonably regular, sinusoidal eye movements with an
initial deflection usually lasting >500 msec. Slow eye movements may be present during drowsy
wakefulness or stage N1.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Slow Wave Activity

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Waves of frequency 0.5–2 Hz and peak-to-peak amplitude >75 μV, measured over the frontal
regions referenced to the contralateral ear or mastoid (F4-M1, F3-M2).
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

31
Term: Somnambulism
Alternate
Term: Sleepwalking
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A parasomnia involving complex, coordinated motor behaviors during NREM sleep.
Sleepwalking varies in presentation from simple sitting up in bed to agitated running during
sleep. Somnambulism occurs after an abrupt arousal during SWS in the first third to the first half
of the sleep period.
Reference: Eckhardt, W., Mattice, C. (2012). Parasomnias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 150). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Somniloquy
Alternate
Term: Sleep talking
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Sleep talking; not generally associated with pathology. Sleep talking can be associated with
REM sleep behavior disorder and other sleep disorders such as sleep terror, confusional arousals,
or sleepwalking.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 645). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Spike
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A transient fast frequency (20-70 msec.) waveform with a pointed peak that is recorded in the
EEG channels, and can be interpreted as epileptiform activity.
Reference: Campbell, D., Davis, D. (2012). Seizures and sleep. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 189). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Spike and Wave Complex

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A sequence of 2 or more waves with a distinct pattern of a spike followed by a slow wave that is
distinct from background activity.
Reference: Tyner, F., Knott, J., & Mayer, W. (1983). Fundamentals of EEG technology, Vol.1: Basic
concepts and methods (p. 187). New York: Raven Press.

Term: Stage R Latency

Abbreviation: REM Sleep Latency
Definition: The interval from sleep onset to the first appearance of Stage R sleep in the sleep episode.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

32
Term: Stanford Sleepiness Scale
Abbreviation: SSS
Definition: A subjective measure of sleepiness rating that uses a 7 point Likert rating scale to assess
immediate changes in the patient’s level of sleepiness. The rating is from “Not sleepy at all” to
“Extremely sleepy.” This can be used to assess the patient’s readiness to fall asleep before their
scheduled bedtime in the sleep laboratory or before an MSLT testing situation
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 645). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Status Epilepticus

Alternate
Term: Electrical status epilepticus of sleep
Abbreviation: ESPS
Definition: A condition in which there is continuing or repeated seizures that produces a fixed and enduring
epileptic condition. An arbitrary duration time of 30-60 minutes is used to indicate this
condition. This syndrome is known as epilepsy with continuous spike and waves during N3 sleep
and refers to the occurrence of continuous epileptiform activity for at least 85% of slow wave
sleep.
Reference: Campbell, D., Davis, D. (2012). Seizures and sleep. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 196). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Suggested Immobilization Test

Abbreviation: SIT
Definition: An electrophysiologic monitoring technique used to measure PLMW in the 1 hour prior to
beginning a polysomnogram. The patient sits up in bed with legs outstretched and is instructed to
remain still during the recording (“Please do not move during this test.”) EMG is recorded over
the bilateral anterior tibialis muscles. Every 5 minutes the patient is asked to document the
severity of any urge to move their legs.
Reference: Forester, M., Becker, P. (2012). Restless legs syndrome (Willis-Ekbom Disease) and periodic
limb movement disorder. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of
sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 167). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Sundowning
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The diurnal pattern of agitated behavior, with worsening in the late afternoon or early evening.
Reference: Forester, M., Becker, P. (2012). Restless legs syndrome (Willis-Ekbom Disease) and periodic
limb movement disorder. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of
sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 167). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Suprachiasmatic Nucleus

Abbreviation: SCN
Definition: The biological clock or pacemaker located in the hypothalamus that modulates sleep and
wakefulness in humans.
Reference: Kreinin, I. (2012). Sleep across the life cycle. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 16). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

33
Term: Supraventricular Tachycardia
Abbreviation: SVT
Definition: P waves that are present, aberrant, often hidden with QRS present, may be aberrant and the PR
interval is not measurable. The rhythm is regular during paroxysm with a rapid rate of 150 to 250
bpm.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 346). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: System Reference

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: System referencing is currently the most common technique offered by digital recording systems
for selecting and changing signal input derivations. System referencing relies on a common
reference electrode, typically placed on the midline of the scalp (Cz). The signals from each
electrode are initially referenced to the common electrode (e.g. C3/Cz). To display a desired,
derivation, the common reference is digitally subtracted from any pair of input signals. For
example, to display a C3/A2 (M2) derivation, the Cz reference is subtracted from both C3 and A2
(M2).
Reference: Leary, E. (2012). Polysomnographic recording procedures. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 329). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Thermistor
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A sensor that correlates with nasal and/or oral airflow by detecting changes in temperature.
Thermistors are thermally sensitive variable resistors that produce voltage alterations when
connected in a low-current (but constant-current) circuit.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 646). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Thermocouple
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A sensor that is composed of dissimilar metals that detect nasal and/or oral airflow by measuring
differences in temperature.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 646). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Theta Rhythm

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An EEG rhythm consisting of 4–7 Hz activity.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Tidal Volume

Abbreviation: Vt
Definition: The volume of a single normal breath. Normal values in adults are 400-600 ml.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 646). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

34
Term: Titration
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Implementation of incremental changes in therapeutic pressure levels to determine optimal
patient response. Examples in polysomnography are technologist-monitored PAP and oxygen
titration.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 646). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Total recording time

Alternate
Term: Time In Bed
Abbreviation: TRT, TIB
Definition: The elapsed time between “lights off” and “lights on” in minutes.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Report generation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 405). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Total Sleep Time

Abbreviation: TST
Definition: All the time scored as NREM and REM sleep during the recording.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Report generation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 405). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Total Wake Time

Abbreviation: TWT
Definition: Total time spent awake during the total recording time.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Report generation. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 405). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Tracheotomy
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A surgical procedure whereas an incision is made through the neck into the trachea to produce an
airway. The tracheostomy refers to a permanent or semi-permanent opening into the trachea.
Reference: Retrieved from http://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/tracheotomy

Term: Transcutaneous Carbon Dioxide

Abbreviation: TcCO2, PtcCO2
Definition: The monitoring of (tcCO2) is CO2 through the skin. The electrode warms the skin surface
increasing the local capillary perfusion, and measures the CO2 gas as it diffuses from the dermis
across a gas permeable membrane.
Reference: Krupski, T., Kline, C. (2012). Pediatric polysomnography. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 506). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

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Term: Transitional Sleep
Alternate
Term: Stage T
Abbreviation: T
Definition: A transitional sleep state seen in infants at sleep onset, during arousals, or when the infant is
transitioning between active and quiet sleep. Stage T is analogous to the previously used
terminology of “indeterminate sleep.” Stage T (Transitional) is scored when 3 NREM and 2
REM or 2 NREM and 3 REM characteristics are present.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Upper Airway Obstruction

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: The pharynx and larynx are the usual sites for obstructive ventilator events; that is, both
structures tend to collapse and occlude the airway.
Reference: Richard, C. (2012). Respiratory anatomy and physiology. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-
Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 49). Philadelphia: Lippincott
Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Upper Airway Resistance Syndrome

Abbreviation: UARS
Definition: Abnormal airway resistance in the upper airway during sleep leading to unwanted physiologic
consequences such as arousals secondary to increased work of breathing to overcome the
resistance. Repeated and multiple arousals (which the patient is usually unaware of) result in an
abnormal sleep architecture and daytime somnolence (sleepiness).
Reference: Maher, E., Epstein, L. (2012). Obstructive sleep apnea. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong,
T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 175). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams
& Wilkins.

Term: Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty
Abbreviation: UPPP
Definition: The uvulopalatopharyngoplasty (UPPP), initially introduced for treatment of snoring, is the most
common OSA surgical procedure. The UPPP involves removal of the uvula, tonsils, and tonsillar
pillars along with the lower part of the soft pallet.
Reference: Maher, E., Epstein, L. (2012). Obstructive sleep apnea. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong,
T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 175). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams
& Wilkins.

Term: Vagal Tone

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Impulses from the vagus nerve producing inhibition of the heartbeat. The assessment of the vagal
tone may be a significant method of assessing the periodic variation of heart rate associated with
respiratory sinus arrhythmia.
Reference: http://www.merriam-webster.com/medical/vagal%20tone

36
Term: Ventricular Bigeminy
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A heart arrhythmia in which an abnormal ventricular heart beat occurs every other concurrent
beat.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 646). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Ventricular Fibrillation

Abbreviation: V-fib or VF
Definition: A condition in which there is uncoordinated contraction of the cardiac muscle of the ventricles in
the heart, making them tremble rather than contract properly.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 357). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Ventricular Tachycardia

Abbreviation: V-tach or VT
Definition: A faster than normal rhythm that is associated with the generation of electrical impulses within
the ventricles and is characterized by an electrocardiogram having a broad QRS complex.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 357). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Ventricular Trigeminy

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A heart arrhythmia in which abnormal heart beat occurs every third beat.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac arrhythmias. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 350). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Vertex Sharp Waves

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Sharply contoured waves with duration <0.5 seconds maximal over the central region and
distinguishable from the background activity.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Volt
Abbreviation: V
Definition: The potential difference across a conductor when a current of one ampere dissipates one watt of
power. A volt is the basic unit of electromotive force. Volts measure the pressure under which
electricity flows.
Reference: Hobby, M. (2012). Patient and employee safety. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 246). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

37
Term: Voltage
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A signal represented by peak to peak amplitude.
Reference: Patrick, R. (2012). Anatomy and physiology of the biopotentials of sleep. In: Mattice, C.,
Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 41).
Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Voltmeter
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Presents a resistance in parallel with the source when voltage measures are made.
Reference: Tyner, F., Knott, J., & Mayer, W. (1983). Fundamentals of EEG technology, Vol.1: Basic
concepts and methods (p. 44). New York: Raven Press.

Term: Wake After Sleep Onset

Abbreviation: WASO
Definition: Wake after sleep onset includes all wake activity, including time out of bed. Time with the
patient disconnected from the recording equipment should be scored as stage W. Brief episodes
of sleep during this time, if they occur, are not considered significant for the stage scoring
summary. WASO is calculated as TRT-SL-TST, in minutes.
Reference: Berry RB, Brooks R, Gamaldo CE, Harding SM, Lloyd RM, Marcus CL and Vaughn BV for the
American Academy of Sleep Medicine. The AASM Manual for the Scoring of Sleep and
Associated Events: Rules, Terminology and Technical Specifications, Version 2.3.
www.aasmnet.org. Darien, IL: American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 2016.

Term: Watt
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: A measure of the amount of work done by a certain amount of current at a certain pressure or
voltage.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 647). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

Term: Waveform Morphology

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: Refers to the shape of the waveform. This is determined by the frequencies that combine to
make up the waveform and by their phase and voltage.
Reference: Whitmore, H. (2012). Adult sleep scoring. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 363). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: West Syndrome

Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: This syndrome, with a peak age of onset at 3-6 months, is characterized by the triad of infantile
spasms, psychomotor retardation and EEG hypsarrhythmia, which is a typical EEG pattern
consisting of multifocal and at times generalized high-voltage spike superimposed on a
disorganized and chaotic background.
Reference: Campbell, D., Davis, D. (2012). Seizures and sleep. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T.
(Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 192). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

38
Term: Wide-Complex Tachycardia
Abbreviation: WCT
Definition: A rhythm lasting for greater than three consecutive beats at a rate > than 100 per minute with a
QRS duration of ≥ 120 msec.
Reference: Atkinson, J. (2012). Cardiac abnormalities. In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.),
Fundamentals of sleep technology, 2nd ed. (p. 340). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams &
Wilkins.

Term: Zeitgeber
Abbreviation: N/A
Definition: An environmental or time cue that sets the body clock.
Reference: Glossary (2012). In: Mattice, C., Brooks, R., Lee-Chiong, T. (Eds.), Fundamentals of sleep
technology, 2nd ed. (p. 647). Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins.

39