Cardiac monitoring
Cardiac Monitoring
Cardiac monitoring (pronunciation: /kɑːrˈdiːæk ˈmɒnɪtərɪŋ/) is a medical procedure that involves continuous or intermittent observation of the heart's activity, often through the use of electrocardiography.
Etymology
The term "cardiac" is derived from the Greek word "kardia," meaning heart, while "monitoring" comes from the Latin "monere," meaning to warn or remind.
Procedure
Cardiac monitoring typically involves the use of an Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG), a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. This can help detect abnormalities in heart rhythm, known as Arrhythmia, and other heart conditions.
Other forms of cardiac monitoring include Holter Monitor, a portable device worn by the patient for 24 to 48 hours, and Event Monitor, which records heart activity only when the patient experiences symptoms.
Indications
Cardiac monitoring is often used in patients with symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or fainting. It can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatments for heart conditions, such as Pacemaker therapy or medication for arrhythmia.
Risks and Complications
While cardiac monitoring is generally safe, there can be some risks and complications. These may include skin irritation from the electrodes used in ECG, or false-positive results that can lead to unnecessary further testing.
Related Terms
- Cardiology: The branch of medicine that deals with diseases and abnormalities of the heart.
- Electrophysiology: The study of the electrical properties of biological cells and tissues, including the heart.
- Cardiac Catheterization: A procedure used to diagnose and treat certain cardiovascular conditions.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Cardiac monitoring
- Wikipedia's article - Cardiac monitoring
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