Home fitting of electrocardiogram (ECG) ambulatory monitors during covid-19

Abstract

Funding AcknowledgementsType of funding sources: None.BackgroundInterruption of health services during COVID-19 leading to increased risk to patients and a backlog for vital outpatient cardiac diagnostic services.PurposeTo safely deliver ambulatory ECG monitors whilst reducing risk to patients and staff by providing monitors to be fitted at home.MethodsA system was developed whereby monitors were set up for the patient/carer to collect a preassembled pack and fit at home using videos/written instructions. A retrospective evaluation was undertaken over four months (12/4/20 – 12/08/20) through feedback questionnaires containing closed and open-ended questions.ResultsOf a total of 726 ECG ambulatory monitors fitted in this period 60% were self-fitted. 97 patients gave feedback (13.3%). 84.4% of patients were satisfied with the process. 58.33% felt safer fitting it at home as 40% were fitted in-house due to limitations e.g. elderly/wheelchair/pregnant patients and/or those without access to view the videos. 6 monitors (<1%) were refitted due to artefact/early disconnection. Improvement suggestions implemented included simplifying instructions and adding specific information for female electrode placement.ConclusionsThis project enabled vital cardiac diagnostics whilst maintaining social distancing - reducing infection risk and achieving high patient satisfaction. Implementing a locker system will decrease differing instructions and positively impact waiting times to further reduce viral transmission risks.