Medical Emergencies · single question
Sleep apnea is BEST diagnosed by:
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: D. Nocturnal observation/polysomnography (sleep study)
- A. Cephalometric analysis can identify anatomic features (retrognathia, narrow airway) associated with OSA risk but cannot diagnose it.
- B. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale is a screening tool — not a definitive diagnostic test.
- C. Patient self-report is unreliable for diagnosis.
- D. Correct. Polysomnography (sleep study) — or home sleep apnea testing — is the gold standard for diagnosing obstructive sleep apnea. It records oxygen saturation, respiratory events, body position, and EEG during sleep to confirm and quantify the disorder.
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