24 hour tape recording
What is it?
A 24 hour tape recording sometimes called a Holter Monitor or Ambulatory Monitor is a means of recording your E.C.G. over a 24 hour period. This is a straightforward procedure with no side effects.
Why is it done?
The 24 hour heart recording is done to see what your heart rhythm does when you are undertaking normal daily activities. Basic E.C.G.'s are very short and any heart problems may not manifest themselves during this time. Therefore 24 hour recordings are of more use.
- Assessment of your heart rhythm (fast or slow)
- To check if your medication is working
- To record any dizzy spells experienced.
How is it done?
The technicians will ask you to undress from the waist upwards and will then apply 4 electrodes to your chest and wires will be connected to these. These electrodes pick up your heart signal onto a cassette which is held in a small tape recorder (similar size to a personal stereo). You will be asked to record any events you may have on a diary and note the time down. This enables accurate analysis of the tape. The process takes about 5-10 minutes.Patients must not bath or shower whilst wearing this monitor
24 Hour Tape device. Several
electrodes are attached to
the chest and are connected to
a recorder worn on the belt
