A cardiac event recorder enables the recording of heart rhythm whilst you are having symptoms. It is very easy to use and when you collect your recorder, the technician will explain in detail  how to use the equipment.

HOW IS THIS DONE?

The recorder can be used in two ways:

1. Sticky electrodes with wires attached are applied to the chest. The wires are connected to the recorder worn on a belt or in a shoulder harness. When you have the symptoms all you do is press a button on the recorder.  This can be done up to one minute after the event.

or

2. When you have symptoms the recorder can be held directly onto the chest  and a button pressed.

When you have used the recorder you can either return it directly to the department at the Hospital or transmit the recording down a phone-line. Full verbal and written instructions will be given to you when you attend the department. You will also be asked to complete a diary giving details of your symptoms and activities.

Once the recorder has been returned the data will be analysed to see what your heart rhythm was at the time you pressed the button.

WHY IS AN EVENT RECORDER USEFUL?

An event recorder can give detailed information about the heart rhythm during symptoms. This is useful for evaluating the cause of palpitations, dizzy spells and blackouts. This is an excellent, relatively inexpensive way of non-invasively evaluating the heart rhythm out of hospital.

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