Holter Monitoring (Ambulatory electrocardiogram)

An ambulatory electrocardiogram is a test that records the heart rate and rhythm continuously during a period of either 72 hours or 7 days, using a portable Holter monitor.

Holter monitoring is used to determine the cause of palpitations or dizziness and to diagnose heart rhythm irregularities.

Holter monitoring is provided by the Cardiology Clinic.

How to access our services?

  • You must have a referral from your physician to get an appointment and pass this test.

About The Program

What to bring

  • Valid Health card
  • List of all your medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, supplements and herbal medicines

When you arrive

  • Please use the new Main Entrance and register at one of the self-serve kiosks at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Clerks are available to help with the registration process.
  • Upon registering, take a “puck”. It will buzz and light up when your turn comes up and indicate in which room to report.
  • Use the Cardiology door to go to your exam room.

Preparation and procedure

  • The Holter monitoring is painless. However, you have to wear electrodes and a small belt-held device for 72 hours, or 7 days, depending on the prescription.
  • Electrodes are attached to your chest, arms and legs. The technologist may shave the skin or use a light sandpaper to ensure the electrodes adhere to your skin.
  • The electrodes are connected to a device that records your heart’s rate and rhythm.
  • The installation of electrodes and monitor takes approximately 15 minutes.
  • The monitoring period lasts from 72 hours to 7 days. During this time, you will have to keep track of your symptoms and activities in a diary.
  • Please ensure your skin is clean, dry and free of any oils or creams. You will not have an opportunity to bathe or shower until the monitor is returned.
  • You have to bring the Holter monitor back to the hospital at the scheduled time.

Test results

  • The cardiologist will analyze the recorded data and send a written report to the referring physician within 10 working days.
  • Results will also be available in your electronic medical record. For information on the creation of an account and how to access your electronic medical record, visit MyChart.

The team

  • Cardiologist
  • Cardiology technologist

Business hours

Monday to Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

To book an appointment

613-632-1111, option 1, 1
Toll-free 1-800-790-8870, option 1

Fax

613-636-6175

To reach the Cardiology Department

Telephone: 613-632-1111, extension 51201
Fax: 613-636-6178

Address

HGH – Main Campus
1111 Ghislain Street
Hawkesbury, ON K6A 3G5

The Cardiology Clinic is located in Block A, Level 1. View the hospital plan.

External resources

Referring a un patient for a Holter test at HGH

To refer a patient, download the exam request form, fill it out and fax it to 613-636-6175.

Appointment booking line: 1-800-790-8870, extension 82500

 

The Hawkesbury and District General Hospital (HGH) provides more than 40 specialized medical clinics for residents of Prescott-Russell and surrounding region. For a list of clinics, departments and services, visit Refer a patient.