Why am I being referred for this test?
A Holter (tape) test is arranged for people that are suspected to have frequent heart arrhythmias. This could be collapses, palpitations or dizziness for example. This test is also commonly arranged for people that have had a recent stroke or mini stroke.
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 your test involve?
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 day or days up to seven days and you will return to the department 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.
Can l drive?
Yes, your test will have no impact on your ability to drive.
What about work?
You may need to take an hour off on the day of your test. You will be able to return to work after the procedure.
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 doctor has asked us to do this test as it is the best way to see the electrical conduction 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 test that can be done.
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 doctor or specialist nurse and they will inform you of
the examination results.
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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