FCM's Digitrak XT Holter Monitor Application Video - English

Summary

This video provides a comprehensive guide on how to properly apply the Digitrak XT Holter monitor, including skin preparation, electrode placement, and monitor setup. The instructions cover essential steps like shaving electrode sites, cleaning and prepping the skin, and correctly connecting the monitor. It also highlights the importance of proper handling to avoid artifacts in the EKG reading and gives tips on maintaining the monitor, such as ensuring lead wires are not under tension. The video concludes with a reminder for the patient to record any relevant symptoms or activities and return the monitor after 24 hours of use.

Takeaways

• 😀 Proper skin preparation is essential for a successful Holter monitor hook-up.
• 😀 Shaving the electrode placement areas may be necessary, especially for men.
• 😀 The Holter kit contains all necessary items, including electrodes, lead wires, battery, and a patient diary.
• 😀 Use alcohol prep pads to clean the skin, followed by scrubbing to remove dead skin cells.
• 😀 Ensure the battery is correctly inserted into the monitor before attaching the lead wires.
• 😀 Apply the electrodes according to the provided diagram, and secure the wires with tape to prevent tension.
• 😀 Press the gold start button to begin the monitoring process, ensuring the leads are correctly connected.
• 😀 The monitor will display the patient's EKG waveforms across multiple channels to confirm proper hook-up.
• 😀 Double-check the date and time on the monitor, adjusting if necessary before starting the recording.
• 😀 Ensure the patient wears the monitor on a belt clip, avoiding tension on the lead wires to prevent artifacts in the EKG recording.
• 😀 Advise the patient not to shower, swim, or bathe while wearing the monitor and return it after 24 hours.

Q & A

What services does First Call Medical specialize in?

First Call Medical specializes in diagnostic testing, including Holter and cardiac event monitoring services.

What items are included in the Holter monitor kit?

The Holter monitor kit includes a Holter hook-up diagram, a razor (if needed), alcohol prep pads, a scrubby, two packs of electrodes, a triple A battery, and a patient diary.

Why is proper skin preparation important for a successful Holter hook-up?

Proper skin preparation is crucial to ensure that the electrode patches adhere correctly and that the EKG readings are accurate.

What should be done if an area of the skin has scar tissue or a wound?

It is important to avoid placing electrodes on areas with scar tissue or wounds to ensure proper electrode contact and prevent inaccurate readings.

How should the skin be cleaned and prepared for electrode placement?

The skin should be cleaned with alcohol prep pads, and the scrubby should be used to slightly abrade the skin to remove dead skin cells before applying the electrodes.

How do you prepare the Digitrak XT Holter monitor for use?

To prepare the monitor, you need to open the battery compartment, insert the provided triple A battery, and ensure the battery polarity is correct. Then, close the latch on the compartment.

What is the purpose of the stress loop during electrode application?

The stress loop is used to remove tension from the electrode sites, ensuring the electrodes stay in place without pulling on the skin.

How do you start the Digitrak XT Holter monitor?

To start the monitor, press the gold start button located in the lower right corner of the monitor. You will then be prompted to check the status of the lead wires and confirm the date and time.

What should be done if an electrode patch falls off during the monitoring period?

If an electrode falls off, it should be re-applied, or one of the three extra electrode patches provided in the kit should be used.

What should the patient do with the monitor during the 24-hour monitoring period?

The patient should wear the monitor securely clipped to their belt or pants and avoid any activity that could cause tension on the lead wires. They should also make diary notes about any cardiac symptoms or activities.

Can the patient shower or swim while wearing the Holter monitor?

No, the patient should not shower, swim, or bathe while wearing the monitor to avoid damaging it.

How should the patient return the Holter monitor after 24 hours?

After 24 hours, the patient should return the monitor in the prepaid, preprinted FedEx pack, or return it to the location where it was applied.