What is a common device used to measure airflow during a sleep study?

A thermistor is commonly used to measure airflow during a sleep study because it is a temperature-sensitive device that can detect changes in air temperature as a patient breathes. When a person inhales and exhales, the temperature of the air changes, and the thermistor picks up these variations, providing crucial data on airflow patterns. This measurement is important in identifying obstructive sleep apnea and determining the effectiveness of various sleep therapies.

In contrast, an EEG monitor is primarily designed to measure electrical activity in the brain and is essential for identifying sleep stages but does not provide information on airflow. Electromyography measures muscle activity, which can help assess conditions like limb movement during sleep but is not intended for airflow measurements. A pulse oximeter is used to monitor blood oxygen levels, which is important in sleep studies but does not directly measure airflow itself. Thus, the thermistor stands out as the appropriate device for this specific purpose.