PVT Lapses

Cognitive Tests number

Number of lapses (RT > 500 ms) in PVT — marker of inattention.

Detailed Description

A lapse is a response > 500 ms, indicating a brief attention failure. The most sensitive PVT metric for sleep deprivation. 0–2 lapses = good. > 5 = significant vigilance decline. Grows exponentially with chronic sleep restriction (Van Dongen 2003).

How to Improve

  • Each additional hour of sleep reduces lapses
  • Do not drive with > 5 lapses

Related Metrics

References