Holter monitoring

This is a test of your heart rhythm. If you have experienced symptoms such as heart palpitations, dizziness, chest pain or shortness of breath and a routine heart examination has not identified a problem, your doctor may ask you to complete an ECG Holter monitor test.

What is an ECG Holter monitor test?

This test monitors your heart rhythm over a period of 24 hours, 48 hours, or seven days. The monitor is about the size of a mobile phone and you will need to wear it around your waist. You do not need to stay in hospital and you can continue with your normal daily activities during the test. Besides showering!!!

After the test period, the cardiac technician will take the data from the monitor, analyse it, and a cardiologist will review the recording to produce a report for your doctor.

The test will provide your doctor with more information on which to base any decisions about your health.

How is the monitor fitted? 

We will attach three electrodes (small sticky patches connected to wires) to your chest. Small wires from the monitor are then attached to these electrodes. You will wear the monitor around your waist clipped into a belt or waistband. It takes about 20 minutes to fit the electrodes and monitor.

 The test is completely painless and it is important that you wear the monitor throughout the day and night. It is also important that you do not get the monitor wet so please do not have a bath or shower while wearing it.

Results

You will be asked to return to the department to have the monitor taken off after the exact number of days has been completed. 

Please make sure you follow the cardiac technologist’s instructions about returning your monitor as other patients may have their ECG Holter monitoring test cancelled if you do not return the monitor when asked to do so.