Ambulatory ECG Monitoring (Holter Monitoring)
Electrocardiography (ECG) is a test done to record the electrical activity of the heart.
A holter monitor records the ECG over a 24 hour period. The monitor will record every single heart beat you have while you are wearing it. This way we can detect any abnormal beats.
A holter monitor is done because
- It can identify abnormal beats and heart rhythms
- It can evaluate your symptoms to see if it is from your heart beat
- It can monitor pacemaker or defibrillator activity
- It can see if your medications are controlling your symptoms or a known abnormal rhythm
Before the test
- You do not have to do anything special before your holter monitor
- For ladies it can be more comfortable if you wear a shirt/top and skirt/pants rather than a dress
- Do not wear any moisterisers on your chest area
Informed Consent
It is requirement by law that we receive your consent to do your test. It is important that you understand what the test is about,
how it is done and what the risks are. You will be given a form which will outline these things. If you have any questions please feel free
to ask the technician who will be in the room with you when you sign the form.
How the test is done
It will take about 20 mins to attach the monitor.
A bare chest is needed to attach the monitor. Ladies will be given a gown.
Small sticky pads called electrodes are stuck to your chest to detect the ECG. The electrodes need to have good contact with your
skin to pick up the electrical impulses from your heart. Men with hairy chests will be shaved is sports for the electrodes to be placed.
The technician will give you skin a little scrub with rough paper and then a wipe with alcohol. This removes the dead skin cells which form a
barrier. You will find that this may sting a little and it will leave red patches on your skin.This is normal and will take a couple of days to go away.
Some patients with extra sensitive skin may develop small blisters from the gel used on the electrodes. This is rare and will heal quickly.
While you are wearing the monitor you are asked to note your symptoms. This is done by pressing the pink button on the font of the monitor
and nothing the time in a diary which will be given to you.
You can not shower, use an electric blanket or have an X-ray while wearing the monitor. You must try and do what ever you would do in a normal day.
If an electrode comes away from your skin simply use a bandaid to stick it back down.
You will be required to remove the monitor, time advised by the cardiac technician, and return the monitor along with your Patient Diary the following day.
What are the risks?
There are no known risks associated with holter monitors.
How do I get my results?
A report will be sent to your referring doctor, usually within 24 hours. Your doctor will discuss your results at your next appointment.
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