Event Monitor
Event Monitor
What is Event Monitor
A device, similar to a Holter monitor, that records the electrical activity of the heart. But whereas a Holter monitor provides a continuous record of the heart’s activity over a period of 24 to 48 hours, an event monitor, as its name suggests, records only when symptoms occur. For many event monitors, the patient needs to start the device when he or she feels the symptoms.
Like a Holter monitor, an event monitor may show what’s causing symptoms of an arrhythmia (a problem with the speed or rhythm of the heartbeat). It also can show whether a heart rhythm problem is harmless or needs treatment. Serious symptoms may include dizziness, chest pain, and fainting. Complications may include heart failure, stroke, or sudden cardiac arrest.
Event and Holter monitors also are used to detect silent myocardial ischemia. In this condition, not enough oxygen-rich blood reaches the heart muscle. “Silent” means that no symptoms occur.
An event monitor is a pocket-sized device (smaller even than a Holter monitor because it doesn’t have to store as much data) that is connected by wires to sensors attached at various points on the patient’s chest by sticky pads. Different types of event monitors work in slightly different ways.
Comparison
Although similar, Holter and event monitors aren’t the same. A Holter monitor records your heart’s electrical activity the entire time you’re wearing it. An event monitor only records your heart’s electrical activity at certain times while you’re wearing it.
Procedure
You are fitted with the monitor and electrodes by a technician. Several areas on your chest are carefully cleansed with alcohol and an abrasive lotion, to ensure that the electrodes have good contact with the skin. Men may need to have areas of their chest shaved. Next, the electrodes are placed on your chest and are connected by wires to the monitor. It is important that the electrodes and wires remain attached for the entire monitoring period. You will also be given a diary in which you will enter your activities and symptoms during the monitoring period.
IMPORTANT: Please Read and Follow Instruction Carefully
1. Wear a loose-fitting blouse or shirt, with the buttons in front.
2. When sleeping, try to stay on your back with the recorder positioned at your side, so that the electrodes are not pulled off.
3. Do not get the electrodes, wires or recorder wet. Do not swim, take a bath, or shower while wearing the recorder.
4. If one of the electrodes or wires comes loose, a light on the monitor will flash. Press on each electrode to try to restore contact. If you cannot restore contact, call your doctor.
5. While wearing the recorder, avoid electric blankets, magnets, metal detectors, and high voltage areas such as power lines. Signals from these devices may affect the recording.
Please do not hesitate to contact our office if you have any questions or concerns