Holter Monitor / Cardiac Telemetry
A Holter/Telemetry monitor is a battery-operated portable device that measures and records your heart’s activity (ECG) continuously for 24 to 48 hours or weeks depending on the type of monitoring used. The device is the size of a small camera. It has wires with silver dollar-sized electrodes that attach to your skin. The Holter monitor and other devices that record your ECG as you go about your daily activities are called ambulatory electrocardiograms.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may be asked to wear a Holter monitor if you have a slow, fast or irregular heart rhythm. Furthermore your provider may use it in order to see if the prescribed medications are working to address these conditions.
Wear comfortable clothing; make sure not to use body lotion or body oils as these may limit the adherence of the leads to your skin.
The monitor presents no risks to the patient, and is not painful. 3 leads will be placed on the patient’s chest, and will be attached to a small monitor that will transfer the information.
Depending on what your provider is looking for, the patient can have the monitor from 24 hrs to multiple weeks if necessary.
- The technician first attaches the electrodes to your chest. If you have a hairy chest, he or she may shave some hair off to attach the electrodes firmly.
- Once the electrodes are in place, the technician helps you put the Holter monitor on and explains how to take care of it.
- You can carry the monitor in a pocket or pouch, slung across your shoulders and neck like a purse or camera, or attach it to your waist.
- Do your usual activities while you wear the monitor with these exceptions: Don’t bathe, shower or swim while wearing the monitor.