What is the purpose of a split-night polysomnography?

The purpose of a split-night polysomnography is primarily to assess an individual's sleep patterns and facilitate the initiation of Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy during the same night if deemed appropriate. This method allows for both evaluation of sleep and the immediate treatment of obstructive sleep apnea or other related sleep disorders within a single study session.

During the first half of the night, the patient’s sleep is monitored to confirm the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea. After this assessment, the second half of the night is dedicated to determining the efficacy and necessary pressure settings for CPAP therapy. This approach not only streamlines patient care by eliminating the need for separate diagnostic and therapeutic sleep studies but also ensures that treatment can begin promptly for patients who require it.

The other options, while having their own merits in different contexts, do not fully capture this dual purpose of diagnosis and immediate therapy initiation that defines split-night polysomnography.