Cardiac monitoring is a medical process that involves observing and recording the heart's activity over time. This is typically done using devices like electrocardiograms (ECGs) or Holter monitors, which track the heart's rhythm, rate, and electrical activity. These tools help healthcare professionals detect any irregularities or issues, such as arrhythmias or ischemia, which can indicate underlying heart conditions. The data collected during cardiac monitoring can be crucial for diagnosing heart problems and guiding treatment decisions. Continuous monitoring is often used in hospitals for patients with serious heart conditions, while portable monitors allow for longer-term observation in outpatient settings. This helps ensure timely intervention if any abnormalities arise.