Sleep Lab/EEG
Hanover Hospital
300 Highland Avenue
Hanover, PA 17331
(717) 633-2229
Maintenance of Wakefulness Test
This test is like the Multiple Sleep Latency Test as described above. Four nap opportunities are provided separated by 2 hours awake. HOWEVER, the subject is asked to try to stay awake rather than to try to fall asleep. The brain wave monitor determines whether sleep was reached or was the awake state maintained for the full 20 minutes. This is also an all day test. The MWT can also be used to demonstrate effectiveness of treatment of a sleep disorder and is sometimes required by employers or licensing boards to ensure the ability of someone to stay awake.
Things to know before your MWT:
- If you cannot keep your appointment, please call at any time to inform us.
Our phone number is (717) 633-2229.
- Please get out of bed by 6 AM the day of the test.
- Eat a light breakfast. NO COFFEE, TEA, COLA, CHOCOLATE (caffeine products). Decaffeinated products are allowed.
- Bring a list of your current medications, including herbal products. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking some of your medications prior to testing.
- Please bring any medications you may need to take while you are here.
This includes prescription medications, inhalers, nitroglycerin, etc.
- Plan to arrive at the hospital at 7AM. Report to the Outpatient Registration. They will direct to the Sleep Lab which is on the second floor.
- You will be staying most of the day, so bring something along that will keep you AWAKE in between your nap periods.
- Complete and bring along your sleep diary of the past 2-3 weeks. Include sleep habits: time to bed, time out of bed, any naps taken and how you feel during the day.
- The test will be performed in your regular clothes. Wear something comfortable and loose fitting.
- Your lunch will be provided.
- Electrodes will be attached to your head through the hair using a special gel. Your hair must be clean and dry for the test (shampoo only). No hairspray, conditioners, gels, etc.
- Your sleeping patterns will be monitored during a series of 4-5 naps lasting approximately 20 minutes or longer and 2 hours apart.
- You will be observed in a quiet, smoke-free private room.
- A courteous staff person will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions.