We work closely with cardiologists to help perform diagnostic investigations and on-going monitoring requested by a consultant, GP or specialist nurse in charge of your care.
Referral to a tertiary centre is only required for very advanced investigations when it is not possible to perform them locally.
A continuous recording of the electrical activity of the heart over a specified period of time, ranging from 24 hours to one week and is used to investigate symptoms such as palpitations or dizzy spells that occur infrequently.
The recording is made by the patient wearing a small portable monitor.
Whilst wearing the monitor, patients should continue normal daily activities, but are not able to have a bath or shower.
The devices clinic will check your pacemaker, implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) or implantable loop recorder (ILR) to ensure it is working as expected.
Most clinics are virtual but we do see patients at appointments in the department.
An exercise tolerance test is an ECG (electrocardiogram) that is recorded while you are walking on a treadmill or cycling on a static bike.
It can be used to help detect any changes in how your heart works while you are exerting yourself and your heart is working harder.
An exercise test may be required by some organisations such as the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency and UK Civil Aviation Authority to assess fitness to drive or fly.
We advise people to wear flat, sensible shoes that stay securely on your feet, such as trainers, for the test.
You will not be able to wear shoes such as flip flops as they do not provide enough protection for your feet.
Any requirements (e.g. stopping certain medications prior to the test) will be specified in your appointment letter.
You will receive a letter or telephone call informing you what time you should attend the department.
If you have a single shock and you feel well, please call 01793 604257.
If you have more than one shock or feel unwell, please call 999.
The ICD support group assists patients and their families with implantable defibrillators (ICD).
Coming to terms with a heart condition requiring implantation of a defibrillator involves a period of adjustment for the individual and family.
Our ICD support group was formed to provide help and support for our patients with the following aims. The support group aims are:
Appointments: 01793 604250
Devices: 01793 604257
When leaving a message on the answering machine, so please leave:
Great Western Hospital
Marlborough Road
Swindon
SN3 6BB
