HOLTER MONITOR (24-48 HOURS)

Available for Adults and Children

Continuous monitoring of ECG for a long period, usually 24 or 48 hours and during normal physical activity.

For the test:

First, electrodes or conductive patches are placed on the chest after cleaning for better conduction of electric signals to be transmitted to a monitor that runs on batteries. The device can be carried in a pocket or in a carrier that does not alter its operation and is hung on the neck or waist.

The must to keep a record of the activities and if he/she present symptoms the time should be recorded because the physician has to consider whether there is any relationship between the symptoms and the findings of the study.

After 24 or 48 hours the patient must return the monitor to the lab where the records are analyzed to determine any heart disturbance.

It is very important that the person accurately reports to the doctor the relationship between activity and symptoms so the doctor can relate these to the findings of the study.

Exam Preparation:

No previous preparation is required for this study. During the study the person can not swim. For some patients the area of the chest where the electrodes are placed will be shaved for better contact.

The monitor should be kept close to the body, which may cause some discomfort especially during sleep. The patient has to continue with his/her normal activities for the duration of the test.