A 7-day event monitor is a small wearable patch that continuously records your heart’s electrical activity for one week. It bridges the gap between a 48-hour Holter monitor and the longer 28-day Heart Bug, and is used when symptoms are too infrequent to be captured in two days but a full month of monitoring is not yet required.
What to Expect
The patch is applied at a clinic appointment. A technician places it directly on your chest using adhesive electrodes. You will be given a simple way to mark the recording when you notice a symptom — typically a button on the device or a paired smartphone app — so your cardiologist can correlate your symptoms with the heart rhythm at that exact moment.
Daily Life
You can go about your normal routine during the monitoring period. The device is designed to be worn comfortably day and night. Follow the specific instructions provided at your appointment regarding showering and physical activity, as these vary depending on the device used.
Why 7 Days?
Many arrhythmias — including paroxysmal atrial fibrillation and intermittent palpitations — may not occur within a 24 or 48-hour window. A full week of continuous recording significantly increases the likelihood of capturing the abnormality, helping your cardiologist make a confident diagnosis.
Results
The recorded data is analysed and a report sent to your referring doctor, typically within five to seven business days of returning the device.