Neurodiagnostic Technology

Program Summary

This program is designed to provide graduates with the knowledge and practical skills needed for entry-level employment as a Neurodiagnostic or Polysomnography Technologist. The program combines classroom and laboratory studies with clinical training in healthcare facilities. Through a series of General Education courses, the student will also develop skills in communication, interpersonal relations, and critical thinking.

Program Overview

Neurodiagnostic Technology (NDT) is the medical diagnostic field devoted to the recording and study of electrical activity in the brain and nervous system. Neurodiagnostic Technologists possess the knowledge, skills, and attributes to obtain interpretable recordings of patients’ nervous system function. They work in collaboration with medical researchers, clinicians, physicians, and other health professionals.

The Neurodiagnostic Technologist may be involved in one or more of the following diagnostic procedures: electroencephalography (EEG), evoked potential (EP), long term monitoring (LTM), polysomnography (PSG), nerve conduction studies (NCS), and intraoperative neuromonitoring (IONM).

The Technologist takes the medical history; documents the clinical condition of patients; understands and employs the optimal use of EEG, EP, PSG, and NCS equipment; and applies adequate recording electrodes. Among other duties, the Neurodiagnostic Technologist also understands the interface between EEG, EP, PSG, and NCS equipment and other electrophysiological devices and procedures; recognizes and understands EEG/EP/NCS/sleep activity displayed; manages medical emergencies in the laboratory; and prepares a descriptive report of recorded activity for the interpreting physician. The responsibilities of the Technologist may also include laboratory management and the supervision of Neurodiagnostic Technologists. Considerable individual initiative, reasoning skill, and sound judgment are all expected of the Neurodiagnostic professional. Neurodiagnostic Technology personnel work primarily in neurology-related departments of hospitals, but many also work in clinics and the private offices of neurologists and neurosurgeons.