Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT) at UPMC in South Central Pa.

The multiple sleep latency test (MSLT) is a nap study used to see how quickly you fall asleep in quiet situations during the day.

Typically, you will be asked to arrive at 8 a.m. and stay until approximately 6 p.m. If your physician has also ordered an all-night sleep study, you may be able to schedule your MSLT immediately afterward.

What To Bring

• Insurance cards
• Photo identification
• A list of all medications you are taking (if you need a medication while in the center bring the medication in original prescription bottle for self-medication)
• Comfortable clothing to nap in
• Reading materials, such as books or magazines
• Other items, such as crossword puzzles, knitting, paperwork, etc.

How To Prepare

To ensure that your test is as accurate as possible, we ask that you wash and dry your hair thoroughly and refrain from using any hair products before you arrive at the sleep center.

You may eat normally before your MSLT, but do not consume any caffeine, such as soda, coffee or tea. You may continue to take all medications normally unless you have been instructed otherwise.

What To Expect

• When you arrive for your MSLT, you will be greeted by a polysomnography technician. He or she will show you to your room, explain the test and answer any questions you may have.
• After you are comfortable, your technician will attach l wires, called electrodes, to different parts of your body. The electrodes, which will be connected to a computer, will help your technician monitor different elements of your body’s activity, including:
• Heart rate
• Oxygen levels
• Brainwave activity

You will have a number of nap times throughout the day, during which you will lie quietly in bed and attempt to fall asleep. Between nap times, you will have lots of free time. Lunch will be provided for you.

Your technician will chart how long it takes you to fall asleep during each nap time.

The information collected from your study will be sent to a Sleep Specialist for interpretation and recommendation. This report will be sent to your referring physician, this may take seven to 10 days. Follow up for results will take place between you and your referring physician.