Holter Monitor

A Holter monitor records the electrical activity of the heart over a 24-72 hour period.

A Holter monitor is a non-invasive, painless test using dots placed on the skin that records the electrical activity that your heart creates over a 24-72 hour period. A Holter monitor can tell your doctor about abnormalities in your heart rhythm. Holter monitors are an important diagnostic tool for your doctor to use.

Preparation

Prior to the test, avoid skin products such as lotions that may make the electrodes not adhere to the skin.

How is it done

You will be asked to lie down on the examination couch in the clinic with your shirt off. Excessive chest hair may be shaved in some areas to help the electrodes stick. The Holter electrodes are placed on the upper left chest and the device clicked onto the electrode. The device is then activated.

After 24 hours, you will be asked to return the Holter monitor. The date will be analysed and within 2 days, the results will be available for your Doctor to interpret. Your cardiologist will arrange a review to discuss the Holter results.

Duration

10 minutes putting on and off after 24-72 hours.