Which type of EKG analysis evaluates the electrical activity of the heart over a longer period?

The Holter monitor is a type of EKG analysis specifically designed to evaluate the electrical activity of the heart over an extended period, typically 24 to 48 hours or even longer. It consists of a portable device that continuously records the heart's rhythms while the patient goes about their daily activities. This extended monitoring allows for the detection of transient arrhythmias or changes in the heart's electrical activity that may not be captured during a standard EKG, which usually lasts only a few minutes.

In comparison, a standard EKG provides a snapshot of the heart's electrical activity at a particular moment in time, making it less effective for identifying intermittent issues. A stress test evaluates the heart's performance under physical stress but does not provide the same continuous monitoring as a Holter monitor. An echocardiogram, while useful for assessing the heart's structure and function, does not measure electrical activity. Therefore, the Holter monitor is uniquely suited for prolonged observation of the heart's electrical patterns, making it the correct choice for this question.