Ambulatory Cardiac Monitoring Care
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- Overview
- What It Is
- Reasons For
- Complications
- What to Expect
- Results
- When to Call a Doctor
Ambulatory Cardiac Monitoring Details
Alternate Names for Ambulatory Cardiac Monitoring:
Holter monitoring
You will first be evaluated by a doctor. An EKG , which is a test to check the electrical activity of your heart, will likely be done in the office.
Description of TestThe test steps will depend on the type of device used:
- Holter monitoring -A small device will be strapped to you. Wires from the device will be attached to electrodes on your chest. Electrodes are small adhesive pads. You may be taught to replace them or asked not to remove them during the monitor period. You will be instructed to keep a diary of your activities for the next 24 hours. You will then return the device and your diary for analysis. Some devices have an event button. You will push the button each time you have concerning symptoms.
- Looping monitor -The electrode may be a wrist band, finger attachment, or chest plate. This device records several minutes at a time, then starts over. You will be instructed to push a button during or after an event to preserve the recording. For longer periods of monitoring, there is an implantable version. This electrode is surgically placed under your skin.
- Event recorder -This device is only used when you have symptoms. The device can be a wrist band with an activation button or a pager-sized device you press onto your chest. Some of these are connected to a 24-hour-a-day central base that can immediately detect and respond to the event when you activate the signal.
- CardioNet (mobile cardiac outpatient telemetry) -A special service monitors your heartbeat continuously. It will respond immediately if it detects a serious event.
Certain environmental interferences should be avoided, including: magnets, metal detectors, high-voltage wires, radio frequency signalers, microwave ovens, electric blankets, electric toothbrushes, and electric razors.
After TestAfter the procedure, you will return the equipment.
How Long Will It Take?A typical interval is 24 hours. If your problem is less frequent than that, you may need to be monitored for a longer period of time. Longer monitoring often requires different devices.
Will It Hurt?This test will not hurt. Sometimes removing the electrodes can be uncomfortable.
Learn
 Complications Learn about possible complications and what might increase the risk of them. |
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 What to Expect Find out how long it will take, what they will be doing and what to expect afterwards. |
 Results What are the next steps and other possible tests needed after you have received the results. |
