How to Wear a Halter Heart Monitor

A Holter monitor is attached with electrodes and lead wires.

A Holter monitor is an electronic device that records the rhythm of your heart. If your doctor suspects an irregular heartbeat or is unable to gather needed information by performing an electrocardiogram, you may be asked to wear a Holter monitor. The monitor is typically worn for 24 to 48 hours. Your doctor will place the monitor on your chest and start the monitor. The monitor must be worn properly to provide accurate results.

Things You'll Need

• Holter monitor
• Log book

Instructions

1. Visit your doctor to have the monitor placed on your chest. The doctor will attach five to seven lead wires to electrodes placed on the skin on your chest with a special gel. Occasionally, an electrode may be secured with tape to prevent movement. The monitor will be placed in a pouch worn around the neck or waist before you leave the office.

2. Don't bathe or shower until the Holter monitor is removed. The monitor must not get wet.

3. Record your daily activities. Keep a log of the date and time when you exercise, go for a walk or have an odd feeling or pain. Resume normal activities while wearing the monitor.

4. Reattach any electrodes that become loose or that fall off , following your doctor's instructions. If you are uncertain how to reconnect an electrode, contact your doctor.

5. Keep the monitor in its pouch and close to your body. This may cause some discomfort while sleeping but it will help prevent the electrodes and leads from accidental removal or damage.

6. Visit your doctor to have the monitor removed, or remove the monitor as instructed by your doctor after you have worn the monitor for the designated period of time

Tips & Warnings

• Do not remove the monitor until your doctor instructs you to do so.

References

• National Institutes of Health: Holter Monitor
• Texas Heart Institute: Holter Monitoring
• Mayo Clinic: Holter Monitor