Event Monitor Testing for Arrhythmias – from a Phoenix Cardiologist

A cardiac event monitor is a device used to perform an event monitor test, which records and examines the functioning of the heart. An event monitor is also commonly referred to as a 30-day heart event monitor, 24-hour monitor and an ECG event monitor.

Why is Event Monitoring Testing Performed?

Event monitor testing’s main use is to detect or observe abnormal heart rhythms. The monitor is a very small device that attaches to the patient’s chest. The device is user driven, and must be engaged when the patient feels an abnormal heart rhythm such as a flutter or quickening. When the symptom arises, the patient pushes a small button on the device.
Other symptoms that preclude or indicate abnormal heart arrhythmias include dizziness, chest pain, pounding feeling in the chest and fainting. Event monitors also play an important role in detecting silent heart arrhythmias that occur without symptoms, as a result of not enough blood reaching the heart.

Once the button is pushed it is critical the individual stay calm and as still as possible so the event monitor can properly record data. While the event monitor is recording data, it emits a high pitch sound for approximately 30 seconds so the user knows that data is being recorded.

After the high pitch sound stops the individual is able to resume their normal activity. The event monitor sends the data to the Phoenix cardiologist for analysis. The data is extremely helpful in determining diagnosis and proper treatment.

How is the Event Monitor Set-Up?

Event monitors are connected to wires that are then attached to a pair of electrodes that intake data. Depending on the style of monitor, the device can be clipped to the waist of a pair of pants or shorts or worn on the chest. The individual will wear the monitor for a prescribed number of days as determined by the cardiologist in Mesa AZ. It is common for someone to wear a monitor for 30 days.

The event monitor can be worn at all times except while showering or bathing. Data is collected on a daily or weekly basis depending on the requirements set by the doctor. Most cardiologists like to analyze data after at minimum 3-4 different events in order to get a robust set of data. It is common practice for an individual to receive training on how to properly use the device once it is determined they will be wearing one.

AZ Heart Doctor provides comprehensive noninterventional cardiology services to the greater Phoenix area with offices in Tempe and Mesa AZ. Dr. Yasir Batres is a Double Board Certified cardiologist Phoenix trusts, providing services to a broad range of conditions with services such as event monitoring. Call today (480) 300-4646 for more information and scheduling.