A heart monitor is a medical device used to observe and record the electrical activity of the heart. It helps healthcare professionals assess heart health by displaying real-time data on heart rate and rhythm. This information is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as arrhythmias and heart disease. There are different types of heart monitors, including electrocardiograms (ECGs) and Holter monitors. An ECG provides a snapshot of heart activity, while a Holter monitor is worn for 24 hours or more to capture continuous data. Both tools are essential for effective cardiac care and monitoring.