Ambulatory monitors
Date issued: July 2026
Review date: June 2027
Leaflet section: Cardiology
PDF: Ambulatory monitors.pdf [pdf] 140KB
Cardiology
Heart Monitor
This leaflet provides information about your forthcoming appointment so that you know exactly what to expect. We’ll go into more detail during your appointment and you’ll also be able to ask any questions that you may have.
Having a heart monitor
A heart monitor is used to assess your heart rate and rhythm for 1 day or longer. It can be used to identify abnormal heart rates and rhythms, which may or may not be associated with particular symptoms. A heart monitor is also sometimes called an ‘ambulatory heart monitor’, ‘loop’ or a’ tape’.
How long will the test take?
The test involves attending the Cardiology Department on 2 separate days.
On the first day, the monitor will be fitted, this will take approximately 15 minutes. During this time you will be given full instructions on how to operate it and how to fill in a diary sheet to document any symptoms.
On the next visit, you will be asked to remove the monitor and return / drop it off along with your diary sheet at the Cardiology Department. You may not see a physiologist on the second day, it is to return the monitor only. It is acceptable to have a relative or friend bring the monitor back to the department on your behalf, at the agreed date and time.
If you attend by hospital transport please ensure that you have booked for both dates.
Preparing for your appointment
The monitor can be attached to your waistband using a clip, or placed in a trouser or shirt pocket, a shirt or a top which opens at the front is helpful, so you’ll need to wear appropriate loose fitting clothing on the day.
At the appointment
During your appointment stickers (called electrodes) will be put onto your chest to monitor your heart rate and rhythm. Some men may need to have a small area on their chest shaved in order for the electrodes to stick to the skin. These stickers are attached to the heart monitor.
Wearing the monitor
It is important to carry on with your normal daily routine whilst you’re wearing the monitor. You will be given a diary sheet to complete whilst you’re wearing the monitor. Use this to make a note of the exact time and details of any symptoms you may experience. If your monitor is only to be worn for 1 day then you won’t be able to have a bath or a shower because it must stay dry. However, if we ask you to wear the monitor for longer than 1 day we’ll give you extra stickers so that you can have a bath or a shower. We’ll also show you how to remove and re attach the monitor during your appointment.
Please remember to not get the device wet, tamper with it, sleep with an electric blanket switched on, most importantly these devices are returned quickly on the day and time agreed so they’re available for other patients to use on time.
If you cannot return the monitor at the end of the recording period, we will need to know in advance, please telephone number 01752 431662.
Results
The recording will be analysed at the Cardiology Department, Derriford Hospital and the results will be sent to your doctor that requested the test.
Other formats
If you need this leaflet in another format such as Braille, large print, high contrast, British Sign Language or translated into another language, contact the Patient Advice and Liaison Service (PALS):
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01752 439694
