WHAT IS A CARDIAC EVENT MONITOR?
The Cardiac Event Monitor is used to detect abnormal heart rhythms. This small device records the heart's electrical activity (rhythm) at the push of a button. Patients trigger the device when they first begin to feel signs (an "event") such as dizziness, weakness, lightheadedness, heart racing and /or fluttering. The monitor stores the heart rhythm. Later that rhythm is sent via the telephone to the doctor for review. This test allows for on-demand heart monitoring outside the hospital/clinic setting when symptoms are noted and as you go about your normal routine. The test results help guide your doctor to choose treatment options to meet your specific needs. The monitor, about the size of a deck of cards, is clipped to your waistband. This monitor is connected to a set of wires which attaches to two electrodes worn on your chest (like an EKG). The monitor can be worn for up to 30 days. It is removed during bathing.

DURING THE TEST:
After a technician explains the test, your chest will be "prepped" for electrode placement. The electrodes measure the heart's electrical activity. The electrode placement areas may be shaved if needed. Then the area is cleaned with water or rubbing alcohol, or a pumice solution designed for this purpose. Once the electrodes are in place, monitoring wires are attached to each electrode. The other ends of the lead wires are connected to a recording monitor. Once monitor is in place the tech will explain in detail how to trigger the monitor to record you heart rhythm, use the diary to record symptoms, change the electrodes, attach the monitor wires, and who to call with questions. You should not need to change the batteries while you have the monitor, however, if you needed please call the office for instructions. The tech will also show you how to transmit the monitor's recording via the telephone. You will have time to practice this. The tech will give you a supply of electrodes.