The cardiac diagnostics department carries out tests to see what the performance of your heart is like.
Some of the tests we perform are listed below and the test(s) you will be attending for is highlighted.
- Electrocardiogram (ECG)
- 24 hour Holter monitoring (24 hour tape)
- 24 hour blood pressure monitoring
Do I need to do anything to prepare for my test?
No, you will not have to do anything different to your normal routine before your test. Eat and drink normally and take all your medication at your usual times unless you have been told otherwise.
It is helpful to wear loose fitting clothing around your chest as we will need access to your chest for the procedure.
What does each test involve?
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG will give lots of information on the performance of your heart by recording the electrical impulses travelling through it. From this we can get an indication of the size and function of your heart. This test only takes about 10 minutes and involves small sticky pads being stuck on your chest, arms and legs. These pads will be connected to some wires and a machine will print off the electrical impulses that your heart produces as it beats.
24 hour Holter monitoring (24 hour tape)
An ECG only checks your heart for several seconds and occasionally your doctor will want to check your heart over a longer time to see what might be causing the symptoms you are experiencing. A small credit card sized machine will be attached to you via three leads stuck to your chest. You will be given a diary card to note down all your activities and symptoms over the next 24 hours and you will return the next day to have the monitor removed. Occasionally we may need to monitor you for longer, but you will be told if this is the case. The monitor only takes about 10 minutes to fit and remove.
24 hour blood pressure monitoring
A blood pressure cuff will be placed around your arm, and this will inflate periodically over the next 24 hours. A monitor will be fixed onto a belt around your waist which will record all your blood pressure readings. You will be given a diary card to note down all your activities and symptoms over the next 24 hours and you will return the next day to have the monitor removed. The monitor only takes about 10 minutes to fit and remove.
Will my test hurt?
None of the tests are painful. The only discomfort you may feel is when the sticky pads are removed.
What about work?
You may need to take a couple of hours off on the day of your test depending on how long it takes. This will be made clear in your appointment letter.
Risks
There is a very small risk of a reaction from the electrodes, e.g., a rash on the skin in patients who tend to be hypersensitive.
Alternative procedure
Your consultant has asked us to do this test as it is the best way to look at the working of your heart. If you do not wish to have this test you must discuss this with the doctor who referred you. There may be a different scan that can be done.
Can l drive?
Yes, your test will have no impact on your ability to drive.
When do l get the results?
The cardiac diagnostics staff will not be able to give you your results after the test. This information is reported to your consultant, and they will arrange either a letter to inform you of the examination results, a follow up clinic appointment or an appointment with a nurse specialist. If you were referred from your GP then the results will be sent back to them.
I still have more questions?
Don’t worry too much if you still have unanswered questions – a member of staff will go through the procedure with you when you arrive in the department and answer any questions you might have.
Cardiac Diagnostic Department
Chief Clinical Physiologist,
Cardiac Diagnostics Department,
Queen Elizabeth Hospital
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