Diagnostic monitoring

We use portable devices, which monitor your heart's rhythm and blood pressure during your normal daily routine, to help diagnose potential heart conditions.

The type of device we choose to use will depend on your symptoms and the reason for the monitoring. 

Heart monitors

A heart monitor may be used to assess your heart rate and rhythm for 24 hours or longer. It can be used to identify abnormal heart rates or rhythms, which may or may not be associated with particular symptoms.

Blood pressure monitors

A blood pressure monitor is used to measure and record your blood pressure over a 24 hour period during your normal daily routine. It can be used to diagnose conditions such as high blood pressure (hypertension).

Cardiac event recorders

A cardiac event recorder is a small hand held device which is used to record your heart rate and rhythm when you activate it. The recordings are then sent through to the department using the event recorder and a landline telephone. This can help your doctor to see if any symptoms you might be experiencing are associated with changes in your heart rate and rhythm. A cardiac event recorder is also sometimes called a ‘cardio memo device’ or a ‘king of hearts’.