Discharge Instructions: Holter Monitor

Your doctor has recommended that you wear a Holter monitor for a day or two. This device painlessly records your heartbeat while you are at home and away from the doctor’s office. The Holter monitor is a small, battery operated, portable electrocardiogram (ECG). Small, painless pads (electrodes) are put on your chest. These connect to a lightweight unit that attaches to a belt or shoulder strap. It records your heartbeat as you carry it with you. You will keep the device on for at least 24 hours and complete a diary during this time. Your doctor can then review this information at a later time.

Home care

These home care steps can help you manage your Holter monitor.

• Try to sleep on your back.

• Don’t take a shower. A sponge bath is OK. Do not get the equipment wet. Avoid swimming and other activities where it might get wet.

• Follow your normal routine. This means, for example, don’t try to avoid stress, work, or exercise that occurs in your normal day.

• While wearing the monitor, be sure to stay away from magnets, electric blankets, metal detectors, and high-voltage areas such as power lines. These are things that could affect the recording.

Keeping a record

Keep a diary of things you do during the day. This is important. It could help you match your symptoms to times when your heart is beating abnormally.

• Write down when you take medications, drive to work, take a nap, or find yourself in stressful situations.

• For each entry you make, record the time of day.

• Note any changes in activity, including when you take medications.

• Note any symptoms you feel.

• Activate the monitor as instructed when you feel any unusual symptoms.

Follow-up care

Make a follow-up appointment as directed by our staff.