Multiple Sleep Latency Test (MSLT)
This is a painless procedure that will be performed by a trained Technologist to monitor your sleep patterns. You should expect to be at your lab from approximately 6:30 pm until 5:00 pm the next afternoon.
In order to obtain the most accurate testing, we ask that you take four simple steps prior to arriving at Sleep Insights:
- Please wash your hair thoroughly, but do not use conditioners or other hair products. Hair weaves and extensions must be removed.
- Please bring comfortable, loose-fitting, two-piece pajamas to sleep in. We will be placing sensors on your legs and chest.
- Please bring, and take, all of your normally scheduled medications unless otherwise directed by your doctor or the staff at Sleep Insights.
- Please notify us of any special needs prior to your arrival. With advance notice, caretakers may stay with you.
What to Expect
When you arrive at our clinic the evening of your study, you will be greeted by our friendly staff. You will be given a tour of our state-of-the-art testing facility, and then shown you to your private bedroom and bathroom. After you make yourself comfortable, one of our Technologists will come introduce themselves to you. They will take a brief history and explain the night's procedure to you. Feel free to ask them any questions that you may have.
Once the Technologist has answered your questions and explained the procedure, you will be given privacy to change into your pajamas, and then they the Technologist will begin applying the sensors for your study. First the Technologist will run the necessary wires for your legs, chest and abdomen (applied with stickers). Next, the Technologist will mark and measure your head with a paper tape measure and a grease pencil. This is necessary because each electrode on your head needs to be in a very precise location. After the Technologist is finished marking and measuring your head, a prep solution will be applied to clean the scalp for the electrodes. Finally, the electrodes are placed on the surface of your scalp with a small amount of glue called Collodion. Don’t worry, this is a painless procedure, and the prep solution, paste, and glues are hypoallergenic and wash off in the shower.
Once you are fitted with all the sensors, you are free to stay in your room, watching television, reading or talking on your cell phone until you are tired or lights out (11pm). You may also choose to explore the common area in the robe we provide, finding a refreshment or snack in the patient lounge. You may also take advantage of our high-speed internet, read the paper, or just relax and watch TV. Two of our rooms have a comfortable bed for a spouse, caretaker, or parent, so you don't have to be alone. During the night, our Technologists will make every effort to ensure your comfort and enhance your sleep, and they will gently awaken you in the morning.
In the morning, the Technologist will remove some of the sensors used the night before and will explain the next part of your Multiple Sleep Latency Test. You will have 4 half hour naps with the first one beginning at 8:00 am. In between naps, you are welcome to relax in our patient lounge where a variety of foods will be waiting for you. You may also surf the internet, read, make cell phone calls or just watch TV.
After your last nap is completed, the Technologist will remove all of the wires, electrodes, and glue. You will then be able to take a shower and get dressed. When you are ready, you are welcome to return to the patient lounge for some food, or leave to go about your afternoon.
At your follow up appointment, you will receive your sleep study results and have an opportunity to ask our physicians any questions that you may have regarding your sleep study.
Failure to show-up for your scheduled procedure may result in a $100.00 no-show charge. Also smoking is NOT permitted on the premises or at any time during your stay.