What type of data does a Holter monitor primarily collect?

A Holter monitor primarily collects a 24-hour rhythm of heartbeats, making it essential for diagnosing and monitoring various cardiac conditions. It is a portable electrocardiogram (ECG) device that continuously records the electrical activity of the heart over an extended period, typically 24 to 48 hours. This continuous monitoring allows healthcare professionals to capture and analyze any irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) that may not be detected during a standard ECG performed in a clinical setting.

Data collected through a Holter monitor is vital for understanding how the heart functions over time, particularly during a patient's normal daily activities, sleep, or physical exertion. This comprehensive 24-hour rhythm data facilitates the assessment of heart conditions, symptoms such as palpitations, and the effectiveness of certain cardiac medications or interventions.

The other types of data listed, such as continuous blood pressure readings, blood glucose levels, and oxygen saturation levels, are monitored using different specialized devices and do not pertain to the primary function of a Holter monitor.