What is the primary purpose of a Holter monitor?

The primary purpose of a Holter monitor is to detect maximal and minimal heart rates in arrhythmias over 24-48 hours. This portable device records the heart's electrical activity continuously while the patient goes about their daily activities. It is particularly useful for identifying irregular heart rhythms or transient cardiac events that may not be captured during a standard ECG, which only assesses heart activity for a brief period.

By capturing a comprehensive and prolonged record of the heart's activity, healthcare providers can better understand the presence and frequency of arrhythmias, evaluate symptoms such as palpitations or dizziness, and assess the heart's function during daily tasks. This comprehensive monitoring aids in diagnosing conditions like atrial fibrillation, bradycardia, or other rhythm disturbances, which could significantly impact patient management and treatment strategies.

In contrast, other options do not align with the primary function of a Holter monitor. Long-term continuous blood pressure readings pertain to a different type of monitoring tool. Monitoring oxygen saturation levels is typically conducted using pulse oximetry, especially during physical activity, rather than a Holter monitor. Assessing patient responses to heart medications is often determined through various evaluations, but again, this does not encompass the specific role of Holter monitoring.