What is a 30 Day Event Monitor and what does it do?
A 30-Day Event Monitor is a small portable device that records the electrical activity of the heart for 30 days. This monitor is very helpful to the physician in diagnosing various abnormal heart rhythms and medical conditions. An event monitor does not record continuously. Instead, you activate the monitor by tapping it when you are having symptoms. The event monitor will also record if your heart goes into an abnormal rhythm.
Who performs the test?
The test is performed by a licensed Respiratory Therapist.
Where does it take place?
At Jackson Hospital in the Cardiology Department.
How long does it take?
Cardiac monitor worn for 30 days. This monitor will need to be removed at least once a day for 1 hour to recharge the battery. Please replace the sticky electrode pad once a day. There will be extra electrodes given. Please remove the monitor when showering, bathing or swimming. The patient will activate the recording when they feel a symptom.
What can I do to make it a success?
Please be sure to bring your doctor’s orders with you the day of your test. Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time to register.
What should I do before the exam?
There are no special dietary restrictions for this study. Please do not wear lotions or oils on the skin in the chest area while wearing this monitor.
What happens during the exam?
- A specially trained technician will attach the Event monitor and instruct you how to record your symptoms while wearing it.
- The technician first attaches the electrodes to your chest. If you have a hairy chest, he or she may shave some hair off to attach the electrodes firmly.
- Once the electrodes are in place, the technician helps you put the Event monitor on and explains how to take care of it. You can carry the monitor in a pocket or pouch, slung across your shoulders and neck like a purse or camera, or attach it to your waist.
- Do your usual activities while you wear the monitor with these exceptions:
- Don’t bathe, shower or swim while wearing the monitor.
- Stay away from high-voltage areas, metal detectors or large magnets.
- The technician will show you how to keep a diary of your activities and symptoms during the test. It’s important to keep an accurate diary. If you feel symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, uneven heartbeats or dizziness, note in your diary the time of day they began and what you were doing. Your diary will be compared to the changes in your ECG recorded by the Event monitor.
What should I do after the exam?
- 30 Day Event Monitor-The technician will provide you a bag and pre-paid shipping label and explain how to mail the event monitor back directly to the company. You may call the Toll free number that comes with the event monitor or contact the Cardiology department at the hospital if you have any problems.
- You may resume normal activity after your study. Your test will be reviewed and interpreted by a physician. Your physician should have the results of your study in 3-7 business days.
4250 Hospital Drive • Marianna, Florida 32446-1917 • 850-526-2200