HEART WATCH - NATIONAL SURVEY OF CONTINUOUS ELECTROCARDIOGRAPHIC MONITORING IN US HOSPITALS

How is electrocardiographic monitoring being carried out in various se ttings? From results of a national survey, the authors describe unit c haracteristics and monitoring equipment and identify staff roles for c arrying out related activities. Although much diversity was found, inv olvement in monitoring activities was highly consistent with the varyi ng skill mixes in critical care, intermediate care, and ''other'' unit s responding. Data regarding the role of monitor technicians in this p rocess raise questions about the viability of this role.