Electrocardiogram Technician: Module 8 Flashcards
What is ambulatory monitoring?
The recording of an ecg while the patient goes about their daily activity. Usually a small device kept on for 24-48 hours.
What are the different types of ambulatory monitoring?
Continuous monitoring
Intermittent monitoring
Tran-telephonic monitoring
loop memory monitoring
Complete tracing from time of application of device to removal
continuous monitoring
Some devices have an event marker where patient tells the machine to start and when symptoms are felt.
What is intermittent monitoring?
Type of monitoring placed on patient for extended period of time, but is depended on patient reporting
May not capture all abnormalities, but can be evaluated quicker than continuous monitoring.
What is transtelephonic monitoring?
Primarily used to evaluate the function of a pacemaker and can be left on for 24-48 hours.
For patient convenience, the device can be connected to cellular phone to transmit the ecg to either a clinic or lab
Post-symptom event monitoring
monitoring used when a patient is experiencing symptoms.
It comes in all shapes and sizes and can be used to document dysrhythmias that last more than a few seconds at a time
What is loop memory monitoring?
Monitoring that can be left on patient for 30 days or more and can record up tp five minutes of rhythms.
Can be used to provide information, before, during, and after a cardiac event occurs such as fainting
Newer loop monitors have the same lead capabilities as
a 12 lead ECG
What should a patient have for all monitored activities
diary/log
Patient should record all activities and symptoms and it is used along with EKG tracing.
Patient should understand information on their log and be able to
repeat it back to ekg tech
remind patients of any changes made by clinicians while being monitored.
What are the five things a patient should know for ambulatory monitoring?
Wear loose fitting clothes and reduce artifacts
With monitor, sponge baths are acceptable, no swimming, showers, or baths
When sleeping, try to not put tensions on the leads as it can cause artifacts
Avoid magnets and metal detectors with high voltage areas as it can cause artifacts
Make sure the equipment is functioning properly
When it comes to ambulatory monitoring in children
make sure that both parent and child understands what to do and what is expected
What are the materials needed for ambulatory monitoring?
Electrodes to attach to chest at doctor’s office
Wires attach electrodes to small, portable recording device
Continue with daily activities while wearing monitor (No showering)
Record all symptoms and activities for 24 - 48 hours
When reporting results, EKG techs must follow manufacturer’s and institution’s
instructions and policies for reporting the evaluations
Final interpretations will be conducted by a
cardiologist or nurse practitioner that specializes in cardiology. It can also be sent to an outside lab.
