Holter Monitor

What to Expect

During the Procedure

• Description of the room, monitoring devices, positions, and equipment that will be used - EKG electrodes will be placed on your chest, and the Holter monitor will be attached to the electrodes with lead wires. The Holter monitor is small and portable, about the size of a paperback book. The monitor may have a shoulder strap, so that the monitor box may be worn over the shoulder like a shoulder bag, or it may clip to a belt or pocket. Once you have been hooked up to the monitor and given instructions, you should return to your usual activities, such as work, household chores, exercise, etc., unless your physician instructs you differently. This will allow your physician to identify problems that may only occur with certain activities.

• Anesthesia - None required.
  
  
• Basic description of the procedure:
  
  
  1. The EKG technician will ask you to remove your shirt or blouse, and will ensure your privacy by covering you with a sheet or gown and exposing only the necessary skin.
     
     
  2. If your chest is very hairy, the technician may shave very small patches, as needed, so that the electrodes will stick closely to the skin.
     
     
  3. Electrodes will be attached to your chest.
     
     
  4. The lead wires will be attached to the skin electrodes.
     
     
  5. You will be assisted while putting on your shirt or blouse. Then the monitor will be placed over your shoulder with a strap, or attached to a belt or pocket.

You will be given instructions regarding the following:

• how to keep the electrodes attached to your skin
  
  
• how to check the monitor for problems
  
  
• when to call the physician's office for help
  
  
• how to keep the electrodes and monitor dry (Do not take a shower or bath, or go swimming. However, you may take a sponge bath.)
  
  
• the types of electrical appliances to avoid, such as electric razors, hair dryers, or electric toothbrushes which may interfere with the EKG signal (If these appliances are used, you should note it in your diary.)
  
  
• how to keep a diary during the procedure, noting the date and time of day of any changes in activity and symptoms (See diary examples.)
  
  
• other items to avoid during the procedure, such as magnets, metal detectors, areas with high-voltage electrical wires, and electric blankets

You will be given a telephone number to call in case one or more of the electrodes comes off or if the monitor starts beeping. Be sure to write down the date and time of any symptoms you experience, as well as what you were doing at the time and any unusual circumstances that were also present.

At the end of the procedure, you will return to the physician's office or the EKG area to have the electrodes removed and the monitor discontinued. You may be instructed to do this yourself at a certain time and date. If you live out of town or have a problem with transportation, a return package will be provided.

• Procedure time - Holter monitoring is normally done over 24 to 48 consecutive hours. It is possible that your physician may want you to continue the procedure for a longer period, depending on your circumstances. If your physician wants you to wear a monitor for 48 hours, you will be instructed on how to change the tape and battery for the second day of recording.

After the Procedure

• Recovery - None.
  
  
• Length of stay - None.
  
  
• Recuperation time - None.
  
  
• Outcome - Depending on the results of the Holter monitor, additional tests or procedures may be scheduled for further diagnostic information.
  

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