Please note that nmh.org no longer supports Internet Explorer 5.X for Macintosh. To make the most of our site please use one of the following browsers:

Home

Multiple Sleep Latency Test & Maintenance of Wakefulness Test

The Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) is a "nap" study conducted on the day following your Polysomnogram (PSG) study. The MSLT begins two hours after your normal rise time and is a series of four to five naps at two hour intervals in-between naps. Your sleep patterns will be monitored with most of the same recording equipment used during the polysomnogram.

The Maintenance of Wakefulness Test (MWT) is a daytime study following the evening of your sleep study. It begins two hours after your normal rise time and involves a series of tests at set intervals throughout the day. You will be monitored with most of the same recording equipment as used in the overnight polysomnogram. During this test, you will be instructed to stay awake during the "nap" opportunities.

Both tests provide an objective measure of your degree of daytime sleepiness.

Preparing for the Test
Two Weeks Before the Test

  • Complete Sleep Journal
    Complete the sleep journal of your sleeping patterns and habits for at least two weeks prior to your sleep test. If you do not complete a two week journal, your test may be rescheduled.
  • Complete Sleep Questionnaire
    The questionnaire will ask for information regarding your symptoms and sleeping patterns.

 

Contact the Sleep Resource Coordinator at (312) 926-5091 if you are taking any medications that affect your sleeping patterns.

Two Days Before the Test

  • Pre-register
    Call (312) 926-2950
  • Confirm your appointment
    Call (312) 926-8120

 

If you are ill (particularly head or chest cold), call (312) 926-8120 to reschedule your test.

On the Day of your Study

  • Do not eat or drink caffeinated products (coffee, tea, chocolate, soda) past 12 noon
  • Do not drink alcoholic beverages
  • Avoid use of excessive hair styling products (hairspray, gel, etc), makeup and body creams
  • Remove acrylic nails and nail polish from index fingers

What to Bring

  • Physician orders
  • Sleep questionnaire and journal
  • Toiletries and loose-fitting sleepwear
  • Insurance card
  • Breakfast, lunch, snacks, or money to purchase breakfast/lunch items. If you have special dietary requirements, please contact the Sleep Resource Coordinator at (312) 926-5091.
  • We recommend that you not bring reading materials or work that may be physically or mentally stimulating.

 

03/17/03