ABA Sleep Medicine study plan

Map normal sleep architecture across the lifespan and label the EEG frequencies and waveforms that define each stage

Trace the neurobiology of sleep-wake regulation, naming the key nuclei, neurotransmitters, and homeostatic and circadian inputs

Identify the standard polysomnographic montage and explain the purpose of each channel type

Score a full 30-second epoch hypnogram from raw stage rules and defend each stage decision

Classify sleep-related breathing disorders using current diagnostic thresholds for apnea, hypopnea, and hypoventilation

Differentiate obstructive, central, and mixed events by their physiologic signature on airflow and effort channels

Explain how positive airway pressure titration endpoints are determined during attended polysomnography

Compare oral appliance, positional, surgical, and hypoglossal nerve stimulation options by indication and limitation

Apply the diagnostic criteria for chronic insomnia disorder and distinguish it from short-term and comorbid insomnia

Sequence the components of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia and state the rationale for each

Differentiate narcolepsy type 1, narcolepsy type 2, and idiopathic hypersomnia by clinical and testing features

Explain the multiple sleep latency test protocol and interpret mean sleep latency and sleep-onset REM periods

Describe the two-process model and predict how circadian phase shifts alter sleep timing

Distinguish delayed, advanced, irregular, and non-24-hour sleep-wake rhythm disorders by actigraphy and diary patterns

Explain the mechanism, timing, and contraindications of light therapy and melatonin use

Interpret dim-light melatonin onset and core body temperature minimum in phase assessment

Differentiate restless legs syndrome from periodic limb movement disorder using clinical criteria and polysomnographic findings

Explain the iron, dopamine, and augmentation concepts relevant to restless legs syndrome management

Classify non-REM and REM parasomnias by timing, stage of origin, and autonomic features

Distinguish REM sleep behavior disorder from non-REM arousal disorders and from nocturnal seizures

Predict how anesthetic and sedative agents alter upper airway collapsibility and arousal threshold

Outline preoperative screening for sleep-disordered breathing and postoperative monitoring decisions

Explain sleep disruption mechanisms in the intensive care unit and evidence-based countermeasures

Describe how critical illness and mechanical ventilation interact with circadian rhythm and sleep architecture

Describe how pregnancy, menopause, and aging alter sleep architecture and disorder prevalence

Explain the bidirectional relationship between sleep disorders and depression, anxiety, and chronic pain

Adapt treatment plans for sleep disorders in the presence of heart failure, chronic kidney disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Identify sleep-related considerations in pediatric and older adult populations that change diagnostic thresholds or treatment choice

Integrate all domains by working through timed mixed-topic vignette sets under exam conditions

Re-derive the diagnostic thresholds and staging rules you most often miss and write them from memory

Review every missed item and assign each to a domain and a specific knowledge gap

Consolidate a one-page rapid-review sheet covering criteria, scoring rules, and first-line treatments