A Holter heart monitor is a device designed to record data about a person's heart rate over an extended period of time, usually 24 to 48 hours. The monitor consists of several elements, including a control device, a monitor pouch, a patient cable and a series of electrodes. When the electrodes are worn on the patient's torso, the control device is able to track the heart's electrical activity. For the device to function as intended, you must first affix the electrodes correctly.
Step 1
Remove your shirt and, if necessary, use a safety razor to shave away any hair present on your chest. Dip a cotton swab in antiseptic and wipe down the surface of your chest. Moisten a towel with clean water, then wipe your chest clean.
Step 2
Remove the backing from one of the electrodes. Position the first electrode over the point where your right collarbone meets your manubrium, which is located at the upper end of your sternum. Stretch the edges of the electrode slightly, then push the center of the electrode onto your chest. Attach the second electrode where your left collarbone meets your manubrium, then attach the third electrode to the center of the manubrium.
Step 3
Attach the fourth electrode roughly 1 inch to the right of where the sixth rib on the right side of your rib cage meets your sternum. Attach the fifth electrode slightly to the right of the center of the sixth rib on the left side of your rib cage. Attach the sixth electrode to the far left side of the sixth rib of the left side of your rib cage. Attach the seventh electrode over a portion of bone in the lower section of the right side of your rib cage.
Step 4
Place strips of medical tape over each of the electrodes to secure them in place. Strap the monitor pouch to your waist. Connect the patient cable to the corresponding port on the monitor.
Step 5
Connect the color-coded lead wires to the electrodes as follows: white to first electrode, black to second, blue to third, brown to fourth, orange to fifth, red to sixth and green to seventh. Insert the monitor unit into the monitor pouch.
Tips and Warnings
- The sixth rib on your rib cage is the one that meets the bottom edge of your sternum. If you are unable to get an accurate reading with your monitor, ask a trained medical professional to assist you in applying the electrodes. When selecting electrodes, use those designed to be worn for an extended duration.
Things You'll Need
- Safety razor
- Cotton swab
- Antiseptic
- Towel
- Water
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