The Holter monitor is a test used to check the heart for possible irregularities in the heartbeat (cardiac arrhythmias).

Reasons why a Holter monitor test is done include:

• Observe for cardiac irregularities, such as fast or slow heartbeat, extra beats or palpitations
• Evaluate effectiveness of cardiac medications
• Evaluate pacemaker functioning
• Determine if unexplained episodes of dizziness are related to heart problems

To prepare

There are no special instructions to prepare for a Holter monitor test.

If you are having this test done as an outpatient, please arrive at Outpatient Registration at least 30 minutes before your test is scheduled.

Please bring a doctor's order that states how long you should wear the monitor.

What to expect

In the Non-invasive Cardiovascular Lab, a technician will tape five or seven patches, called electrodes, to your chest. For men, we may need to shave part of the chest before attaching the electrodes. The electrodes are then connected to a small cassette tape recorder. These electrodes monitor your heart and make a constant electrocardiogram (EKG) tracing. Because the cassette tape runs slowly through the monitor, it can record for up to 24 hours. You will have a new tape and fresh batteries. You may carry the Holter recorder in a case with a shoulder strap or attach it to your belt. It takes about 10 to 15 minutes to hook up the Holter monitor. The technician will tell you how long you should wear it.

After the Holter monitor is hooked up, you should continue your normal daily activities while wearing the recorder, but you should not bathe, shower or swim. You will have a diary to record any irregular heartbeats or other symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, skipped beats, dizziness, chest pain or other symptoms. When the specified time has elapsed, return as soon as possible the following morning to the Noninvasive Lab to have the monitor and electrodes removed. If the monitor is worn on Friday, you should return it Monday after 8:00 a.m.

Other information

The cardiologist will send a report to your personal doctor. If there is an immediate or life-threatening problem, your doctor will be called so treatment can be started.