ApneaLink Air Device

How to Use the ApneaLink Air

The ApneaLink Air is comfortable and easy to use. Install the batteries and put the chest belt, finger sensor and cannula in place, and start the device. In the morning, return the device using the prepaid envelope.

Need Help? Call Us

3 minutes

Setup time: Put the batteries and sensors in place and start the device

1 night

In your own bed

FDA

Approved device

Return

Using the prepaid envelope

Which device do you have?

Select Your Device for Specific Instructions

NightOwl

Finger sensor — 2-night test, no return shipping

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ApneaLink Air

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Chest belt + finger probe + nasal cannula

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Dream

Compact wrist-worn recorder

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Step-by-Step

7 Simple Steps

Step 01

Install the Batteries

Make sure the + sign on each battery aligns with the + sign in the compartment.

The batteries are included in the packing envelope.

Step 02

Place the Belt Around Your Chest

Place the belt around your chest with the device resting on your chest.

For women, placing the belt above the breasts rather than over or below them may be more comfortable.

Step 03

Place the Nasal Cannula

Place the nasal cannula under your nose. Place the two prongs face down at the entrance to your nostrils. Loop the cannula over your ears and tighten it under your chin to a comfortable snugness. Plug the other end of the cannula into the device, turning clockwise to tighten.

If you're an active sleeper, secure the cannula to your cheeks using the medical tape supplied.

Step 04

Place the Finger Probe

Place the finger probe onto your index finger of either hand. The line or wire on the finger cap goes on top of your finger. Secure the line to the back of your wrist using the medical tape supplied. In the middle of the line there is a recorder partially made of purple plastic. Clip the recorder over the belt.

The system is now fully assembled.

Step 05

Start the Device

Start the device by pressing the on-off button in the middle of the device for 2 seconds. The central light will turn green, and after a few seconds the 3 lights in the corners will turn green also. If any light blinks red, check the connections.

Once all lights are green, you can go to sleep as you normally do.

Step 06

Turn Off in the Morning

In the morning, turn off the device by pressing the on-off button for 3 seconds. The central light will turn off. If the "test complete" light turns green, you have successfully completed the test.

If the light is red, call Advanced Sleep Medicine Services at (877) 775-3377 and we will help you troubleshoot.

Step 07

Return the Device

Return the device using the prepaid envelope. Put the device into the envelope and seal it. Drop the sealed prepaid envelope into the parcel slot at your local post office.

Please return the device the morning after your test so we can process your results as quickly as possible.

Your Kit

What's in the Envelope

Sleep monitor device

Records breathing & oxygen all night

2 AA batteries

New batteries wrapped in plastic

Nasal cannula

New cannula in a separate plastic bag

Finger pulse oximeter

Clips onto your index finger on either hand

Chest strap / belt

Measures breathing effort

Patient instructions

Detailed instructions with diagrams

Prepaid return envelope

Prepaid and pre-addressed. Just drop it at the US Post Office.

Best Practices

Do's & Don'ts

Do

Sleep at least 4-6 hours each night for best results
Sleep in your normal position and bedtime routine
Take any regularly prescribed medications as usual
Call us if anything feels uncomfortable or unclear
Mail the device back to us the morning after the test

Don't

Use your PAP device the night of the test (unless your doctor tells you otherwise)
Drink alcohol the evening of your test
Take sleep aids, antihistamines, or sedatives
Nap extensively during the day before the test
Use heavy lotions on your hands (affects the finger sensor)
Remove the sensor if you wake during the night

Common Questions

ApneaLink Air FAQ

What if a sensor falls off during the night?

If you wake up and find it off, it's okay — simply reattach it and go back to sleep. The device records data whenever the sensor is properly in place. In the morning, the device will show either green (for a successful test) or red (further analysis is needed).

What if the light is red in the morning?

If you felt like you slept more than four hours during the night, and the sensors remained in place, return the device to us even if the light is red. Our technicians will review the data for completeness and process the test if we have enough data for an accurate analysis. If you feel like you slept less than 4 hours, or if the sensors disconnected during the night, please call us at (877) 775-3377.

Do I need a prescription or physician referral?

Yes. A physician order is required for all home sleep tests. If your doctor has referred you to us, we handle the rest. Call (877) 775-3377 if you need help.

What if I need to go to the bathroom during the night?

Leave the device and sensors attached, and go to the bathroom. You can move about with the device attached. The device will recognize when you return to bed and fall asleep.

Can I take the test if I have a cold or nasal congestion?

It's best to reschedule if you have significant nasal congestion, as this can affect the nasal airflow sensor readings. Call us to reschedule at no charge.

How do I get my results?

We send the results to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results and next steps with you.

How long until the results are ready?

We usually send the results to your doctor within 2 weeks of you completing the test.

Ready to get started?

Order your home sleep test today. We handle insurance verification and ship your device directly to your door.

Request a Home Sleep Test Call (877) 775-3377