Health Library

Holter and Zio Monitoring

What to Expect During Holter Monitoring

No preparation is needed.

A technician places the monitor on your child’s chest.

• Small sticky patches (electrodes) are placed on the chest.
• Wires connect the patches to a small recorder.
• The recorder is worn on a belt or shoulder strap for 24 hours.

The patches may cause mild skin irritation.

While wearing the monitor, remember:

• Do not bathe or shower.
• Keep the equipment dry.

After 24 hours you can remove the monitor at home or return to the location where you got the monitor to have it removed. It can then be reviewed by a technician, and the heart rhythms can be interpreted by a cardiologist to determine next steps in care if any are needed.

You or your child must keep a record of:

• Daily activities
• Bedtime and wake time
• Any symptoms experienced while wearing the monitor

If your child feels symptoms:

• Press the event button on the recorder
• Write down the time, activity and symptoms

Return the diary with the monitor, even if no symptoms happen.

The results are reviewed within a few business days and sent to your provider.

What to Expect During Zio Monitoring

The Zio monitor may be placed in the clinic or at home.

• It is a patch (like a large sticker) placed on the chest.
• It may cause mild skin irritation.

If your child feels symptoms:

• Press the button on the monitor.
• Record symptoms in the booklet or MyZio app.

While wearing the monitor, remember:

• Avoid heavy activity that causes sweating.
• Do not soak the monitor in water.
• Showering is okay if water does not hit the device directly.

If the monitor falls off early, call iRhythm (Zio’s customer service) at (888) 693-2401.

If traveling, carry the security card from the booklet or app.

When you come to the end of wearing the Zio monitor (determined by your doctor), mail the monitor back using the provided package, or use a shipping service at your own cost.

Doctors will review the data to help plan your child’s care.