Certified EkG technician (CET) Practice Exam

When is a Holter monitor typically prescribed by a healthcare provider?

1. For monitoring blood pressure over 24 hours

2. For ambulatory heart rhythm monitoring

3. For evaluation of lung function

4. For the assessment of diabetes

The correct answer is: For ambulatory heart rhythm monitoring

A Holter monitor is a portable device that continuously records the electrical activity of the heart over a period, usually 24 to 48 hours. Healthcare providers prescribe it primarily for ambulatory heart rhythm monitoring, allowing them to capture and evaluate heart rhythms during a patient's normal daily activities. This is particularly useful for identifying irregular heartbeats, palpitations, or other cardiac issues that may not be apparent during a standard office visit or during a shorter ECG. The other options, while related to health monitoring, do not apply to the purpose of a Holter monitor. Monitoring blood pressure involves a different type of device specifically designed for that purpose. Evaluation of lung function requires spirometry or other tests that assess respiratory performance, and the assessment of diabetes involves blood glucose monitoring, which is unrelated to cardiac monitoring. Thus, the distinct function of the Holter monitor makes ambulatory heart rhythm monitoring the correct context for its prescription.