HOLTER MONITOR

Test Information

 

A holter monitor is a simplified ECG monitor designed to record your heart rate and rhythm over approximately a 24 hour period. Three adhesive ECG electrodes will be applied to your chest, which are connected to three ECG cables and a small monitor (about the size of a mobile phone). This monitor can be worn attached to your belt, or on a strap worn around your neck. You will be advised to participate in your normal daily activities.

 

Test Duration

 

The monitor takes approximately 20 minutes to attach. Please note that appointments are available only in the morning. The monitor is worn for approximately 24 hours, then you are asked to return the monitor the next morning at a specified time.

Patient Preparation

 

• Shower or bath before your appointment (as you will not be able to bath or shower whilst wearing the monitor)

 

• Please bring a list of current medications with you

 

• If possible, please wear a 2-piece item of clothing (for example a blouse/shirt and skirt/shorts/pants) as you will be asked to remove your shirt or blouse.

 

Testing Procedure

 

You will be asked to remove your shirt or blouse and lie down on your back where possible (gowns will be provided for female patients). Adhesive electrodes will be placed on your chest, arms and legs, which will then be connected to ECG cables. You will be asked to lie still and quiet for a brief time whilst a 12 lead ECG recording is taken. Upon completion of the ECG recording, the leads and stickers will be removed.

 

The technician will prepare the skin on your chest beneath the electrodes to achieve adequate skin-electrode contact (including shaving if necessary, an alcohol wipe and light abrasion with sandpaper). After the three electrodes for the monitor are placed on your skin, they will be secured with some extra tape to ensure the electrodes and leads remain firmly attached throughout the 24 hour period.

 

If you have any allergies to medical tape or band aids please advise the technician PRIOR to the attachment of your holter monitor.

 

Things you cannot do whilst wearing the blood pressure monitor

 

• Welding

 

• Sleeping with an electric blanket turned on

 

• MRI/CT scan/X-rays

 

• Showering or bathing

 

• Swimming

 

Testing Results

 

Your holter monitor results will be interpreted by a trained technician and cardiologist. The cardiologists report will be sent to your referring doctor within two working days. Your referring doctor will then discuss your results with you at your review appointment.