A Holter monitor records heart rhythm the same way an electrocardiogram does in a hospital. Holter devices work at home to provide doctors with the details of your heart function as you go about your daily activities. Tests of this nature provide evidence of irregular heart beats, help evaluate incidents of chest pain or angina, monitor the performance of pacemakers or look for problems that may cause dizziness or fainting. Wearing the monitor is painless and provides valuable feedback that can determine the health of your heart.
Step 1
Wear a loose, button down shirt to the appointment to get the Holter. You will need to continue wearing loose clothing during the test. A loose fitting shirt is less likely to interfere with the electrodes on the unit.
Step 2
Shave your chest prior to attaching the electrodes if you have a considerable amount of hair. Electrodes must make contact with skin to get a proper reading.
Step 3
Go to the location assigned by the doctor's office to get the device. A technician will attach the monitor for you and give you instructions. The device is battery operated and worn in a carrying pouch provided by the clinic. You may strap the pouch around your waist, shoulder or neck. Try a few ways to see what is the most comfortable. You will have the device for at least 24 hours, so comfort is important.
Step 4
Write down your activities as your wear the monitor. This diary helps the doctors evaluate your activity level at any time while wearing the device. You can use a journal pad or a plain notebook. Record the time and what you are doing. Make a notation every time you change your activity. For example, 2 p.m. walked to the store. 3 p.m. ate lunch. Write down all foods and medicines taken during the evaluation period.
Step 5
Take a sponge bath or wash up at the sink to avoid exposing the monitor to water while wearing the device.
Step 6
Press the "event" button if you experience pain or any symptom, such as dizziness. The clinic should point the button out to you on the device.
Step 7
Return the monitor to the proper location at the end of the evaluation period
Tips and Warnings
- While wearing a Holter monitor avoid magnets, metal detectors, electric blankets and high voltage areas. These items can potentially affect readings and damage the monitor.
Things You'll Need
- Loose fitting button down shirt
- Holter monitor
- Journal or notebook
- Pencil
- Watch
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