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SleepDr — Advanced Sleep Medicine Services
Advanced Sleep MedicineServices
NightOwl Device

How to Use the NightOwl

The NightOwl is comfortable and easy. Download the app to your smartphone, tape the sensor to your finger, and sleep. Test for 2 nights, then retain the NightOwl in case a retest is needed for any reason. No chest strap, no return shipping, no hassle.

3 minutes

Setup time: Download the app, then follow the simple instructions

2 nights

In your own bed

FDA

Cleared device

No return

Store the device in case a retest is needed

Watch First

Video Guide

Step-by-Step

6 Simple Steps

Step 01

Look for Our Email

We'll send you an email with the subject line "NightOwl sleep test setup instructions", from our software provider Virtuox.

Don't see an email? Check your spam folder.

Step 02

Download the App

Open the email using your smartphone. The email includes a button that says "Take Me To The App". Download the app.

The activation code should load automatically. If needed, enter it manually.

Step 03

Pair the NightOwl

Pair the NightOwl device with your smartphone. Press and hold the button on the bottom of the NightOwl until the red light flashes.

Click "Start Connecting" in the app after it pairs.

Step 04

Tape the NightOwl to Your Index Finger

Place the white side of the NightOwl at the corner of one of the adhesive bands. Put the blue side against the skin of your index finger and wrap the adhesive band around your finger.

Don't wrap too tightly, but make sure it's snug so it doesn't move.

Step 05

Use the NightOwl for TWO NIGHTS of Testing

When you're ready for bed, plug your phone in within 6 feet of your bed. Press "Start recording" in the app. In the morning, press "wake up".

Use the NightOwl for TWO NIGHTS of testing for best results.

Step 06

Retain the NightOwl in a Safe Location

Keep the NightOwl in a safe location in case a retest is needed for any reason.

Keep the NightOwl until you have discussed the test results with your doctor.

Inside Your Package

What's in the Envelope

Sleep monitor device

White oval shaped device about as big as a quarter

Adhesive bands

Adhesive band to tape the NightOwl to your index finger - Blue side against your skin

Patient instructions

Detailed instructions with diagrams

Best Practices

Do's & Don'ts

Do

  • Test for two consecutive nights for best accuracy
  • 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
  • Keep the NightOwl in a safe location when you're done
  • Call us if anything feels uncomfortable or unclear

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 sensor)
  • Remove the sensor if you wake during the night
  • Skip the second night of testing

Common Questions

NightOwl FAQ

Why does the NightOwl require two nights of testing?
Two nights of data gives our physicians a more complete and accurate picture of your sleep patterns. Night-to-night variability is normal, so two data points help ensure a reliable diagnosis.
Do I really not have to return the NightOwl device?
Correct. The NightOwl sensor is a single-use device. No return shipping needed. After your two nights of testing, please put it in a safe place until after you have seen your doctor to discuss results and next steps.
Do I need a prescription for the NightOwl?
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 your phone plugged in, and go to the bathroom. If the NightOwl loses Bluetooth connectivity, it will automatically re-pair with your phone when it comes back in range and transmit the needed data.
How does the NightOwl sensor work?
The NightOwl uses photoplethysmography (PPG) technology through the fingertip sensor to measure blood oxygen levels and heart rate. It has a separate sensor to measure body movement (actigraphy). It uses artificial intelligence to combine the sensor data into an analysis of your sleep patterns including the presence or absence of sleep apnea episodes.
What if the sensor falls off during the night?
If the adhesive loosens, reattach with a fresh patch. The device pauses recording when not on a finger and resumes automatically. As long as you get 4+ hours per night, results are typically valid.
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 second night of testing with the NightOwl.