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SleepDr — Advanced Sleep Medicine Services
SleepDr
NightOwl Device

How to Use the NightOwl

The NightOwl is a disposable finger sensor — test for two consecutive nights from home, then dispose of it. No chest strap, no return shipping, no hassle.

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30 sec

Setup time

2 nights

In your own bed

FDA

Approved device

No return

Disposable sensor

Which device do you have?

ApneaLink Air

Chest belt + finger probe + nasal cannula

Dream Device

Compact wrist-worn recorder

NightOwl

Finger sensor — 2-night test, no return shipping

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Step-by-Step

5 Simple Steps

Step 01

Unbox Your NightOwl Kit

Your NightOwl kit arrives in a compact package. Inside you'll find the NightOwl finger sensor, adhesive patches, and your quick-start instruction card.

Typically ships within 1-2 business days of approval.

Step 02

Prepare for Night 1

The NightOwl sensor comes pre-charged and ready to use — no charging required. Follow your normal evening routine. Avoid alcohol, heavy meals, and sedating medications unless prescribed.

No charging needed. The sensor is ready out of the box.

Step 03

Attach the Finger Sensor

Place the NightOwl sensor on the tip of your index finger using the adhesive patch. The sensor automatically detects when it's on your finger and begins recording. No buttons to press.

Takes about 30 seconds. One sensor per night.

Step 04

Sleep for Two Nights

Sleep as you normally would for two consecutive nights. The NightOwl records oxygen levels, heart rate, and movement throughout each night. Use a fresh adhesive patch each night.

Two nights of data provides more accurate results than a single night.

Step 05

Done — No Return Needed

After two nights of testing, the NightOwl sensor is yours to dispose of. No return shipping required. Your data is automatically available for our physicians to review.

Results are sent to your physician within 7-10 business days.

Best Practices

Do's & Don'ts

Do

  • Sleep in your normal position and bedtime routine
  • Test for two consecutive nights for best accuracy
  • Use a fresh adhesive patch each night
  • Take any regularly prescribed medications as usual
  • Sleep at least 4-6 hours each night for valid results
  • Call us if anything feels uncomfortable or unclear

Don't

  • 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, disposable device. After your two nights of testing, you can dispose of it. No return shipping needed.
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.
How does the NightOwl sensor work?
The NightOwl uses photoplethysmography (PPG) technology through a fingertip sensor to measure blood oxygen levels, heart rate, and actigraphy (movement). It automatically starts recording when placed on your finger.
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.