Which device is commonly used for titration during an in-lab sleep study?

The CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine is integral to the titration process during an in-lab sleep study, particularly for patients suspected of having obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). During titration, healthcare providers aim to determine the optimal air pressure needed to keep a patient's airway open throughout the night. The CPAP machine delivers a continuous stream of air at a prescribed pressure, which helps to prevent airway collapse and ensures that the patient can breathe properly while asleep.

In the context of a sleep study, titration involves gradually adjusting the pressure settings of the CPAP machine based on real-time data collected from the patient’s respiratory patterns and oxygen levels. This process is essential for establishing the most effective treatment, thereby improving the patient's overall quality of sleep and health outcomes.

While other devices such as a BiPAP machine might be used in specific cases, a CPAP machine is the standard for titration in a sleep study focused on OSA. An oxymeter measures blood oxygen levels but does not directly assist with airway management during sleep. An EEG monitor, which tracks brain activity, serves a different purpose entirely in sleep studies, primarily geared toward diagnosing sleep disorders unrelated to airway blockage.