The American Association of Sleep Technologists (AAST) has developed Fundamentals of Sleep Technology to advance the practice of polysomnography and to promote consistency in its use. In 2001, the Board of Directors of the AAST (previously known as the Association of Polysomnographic Technologists, or APT) made a commitment to meet the expected needs of the field of sleep technology. This comprehensive textbook is the culmination of AAST's work, a project that took nearly half a decade to complete.

Fundamentals of Sleep Technology includes chapters on the neurophysiology of sleep and wakefulness, the anatomy and physiology of the cardiorespiratory system, the pathophysiology of sleep disorders, the performance of polysomnographic testing from the collection and scoring of physiologic measurements to the application of therapeutic interventions, including positive airway pressure and supplemental oxygen, and the establishment and management of a sleep center. The polysomnographic core competencies in particular are given focused and considered coverage.

Sleep medicine is a specialty discipline that encompasses a broad and unique body of knowledge and skills. As the voice for sleep technologists who work to ensure the safe and accurate assessment and treatment of patients with sleep disorders, the AAST is composed of sleep technologists who regularly perform polysomnographic studies. Formal training in sleep medicine and sleep technology will ensure that qualified sleep technologists will continue to provide the highest quality of care. The AAST Board of Directors is proud to provide Fundamentals of Sleep Technology as the educational resource for the profession.