What physiological parameter is monitored using an effort belt during a sleep study?

The physiological parameter monitored using an effort belt during a sleep study is respiratory effort. The effort belt is designed to detect the movements of the chest and abdomen, which reflect the effort associated with breathing. During sleep, it's crucial to assess not only whether the patient is breathing but also how effortful that breathing is, particularly in the context of sleep-related disorders such as sleep apnea.

By evaluating respiratory effort, clinicians can gain insights into the patient's breathing patterns and identify any abnormalities, such as reduced or absent effort that may indicate airway obstruction. This monitoring plays a key role in the diagnosis and treatment planning for conditions that affect sleep and respiratory function.