Heart & Vascular Care

Diagnostic Testing-Event Monitor

What is an Event Monitor?
It is a device that records your heart rhythm when you feel symptoms or an “event.” At the time of the “event,” you will push a button on the monitor to record your symptoms. The recordings of your “events” can be transmitted via telephone 24 hours per day, seven days per week.

Why is the test done?
The recordings from the event monitor provide your doctor with data about your heart rhythm.

Is there any preparation?
No special preparation is required for this procedure.

What can I expect during the test?
You are given an event monitor and shown how to record your heart rhythm. The set-up process takes about 30 minutes. The phone transmittal takes about five (5) minutes to complete. To record your heart rhythm: Your rhythm is stored in the event monitor. You will transmit your heart rhythm over the telephone to be reviewed by your doctor.

When will my doctor be notified of the results? Each time you transmit an event, the event will be recorded over the telephone. A doctor will review the event. At the end of the monitoring session, your doctor receives a summary of all events.

How long will I need to wear the event monitor? The standard length of time to wear an event monitor is 30 days. Your doctor may order to monitor to be removed sooner if it is determined that enough data has been transmitted.

What do I do with the event monitor when finished with the test?
A health care professional will explain the process for enclosing the monitor in its carrying case and mailing it back, using the pre-addressed envelope provided by Life Watch.