Evaluation of telemetry utilization, policy, and outcomes in an inner-city academic medical center.

Objective: To evaluate the appropriateness and intermediate outcomes of telemetry admissions.

Methods: We abstracted demographic and clinical data from records of all new telemetry admissions during a 2-month period. To determine appropriateness, 2 authors classified patients using the American College of Cardiology (ACC) guidelines and our telemetry policy.

Is telemetry overused? Is it as helpful as thought?

Cardiac telemetry is widely used in hospitals, but it is expensive and labor-intensive. Therefore, it should be used only in those most likely to benefit. The authors review the available evidence and offer their recommendations.