ABEM Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield ABEM facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. In American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine practice, what is the FIRST step when a safety hazard is identified in the workplace? → Immediately secure the area and report the hazard
2. Which factor MOST significantly affects the quality of technical outcomes in ABEM practice? → The practitioner's training, preparation, and attention to detail
3. What condition is primarily characterized by muscle inflammation and weakness? → Polymyositis
4. Which data interpretation is typical in demyelinating neuropathies? → Prolonged latency and slowed conduction velocity
5. What is the primary clinical application of brainstem auditory evoked potentials (BAEPs)? → Evaluating auditory pathway integrity and detecting acoustic neuromas or brainstem lesions
6. What is the functional consequence of demyelination on nerve conduction velocity? → Conduction velocity decreases
7. Which condition is commonly diagnosed using electromyography (EMG)? → Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
8. Excessive use of isoniazid (INH) for tuberculosis can cause peripheral neuropathy due to depletion of which vitamin? → Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
9. Why is patient history important before conducting EMG/NCS? → It guides test interpretation and electrode placement
10. Which risk management approach is MOST effective for ABEM professionals when evaluating potential workplace hazards? → Proactive hazard identification and assessment
11. When documenting assessment findings in ABEM practice, which approach is MOST appropriate? → Record objective findings, measurements, and professional observations factually
12. A patient with Lambert-Eaton Myasthenic Syndrome (LEMS) would most likely benefit from which pharmacological agent? → 3,4-Diaminopyridine (amifampridine)
13. The dorsal interossei muscles of the hand are innervated by which nerve? → Ulnar nerve
14. Which class of drugs is contraindicated in myasthenia gravis due to risk of exacerbating neuromuscular transmission? → Beta-blockers and aminoglycoside antibiotics
15. What result in NCS suggests demyelination? → Slowed conduction velocity
16. Which assessment method provides the MOST reliable data for ABEM professionals making critical decisions? → Standardized tools combined with professional observation
17. Which drug used in the treatment of ALS has been shown to modestly slow disease progression? → Riluzole
18. Which muscle is the primary abductor of the thumb and is commonly tested in thenar EMG? → Abductor pollicis brevis
19. Corticosteroids are used in inflammatory myopathies such as polymyositis primarily because they: → Suppress the aberrant immune-mediated attack on muscle
20. The C8 nerve root primarily contributes to sensation in which dermatome? → Ring and little fingers
21. When conducting a risk assessment for ABEM operations, which factor should receive the HIGHEST priority? → Probability and severity of potential harm
22. Which muscle is innervated by the deep fibular (peroneal) nerve and tested to assess L4-L5 function? → Tibialis anterior
23. What is a key ethical principle when working with vulnerable populations? → Ensure fairness, consent, and dignity in care
24. How frequently should ongoing assessments be conducted in American Board of Electrodiagnostic Medicine practice? → At regular intervals based on established protocols and as conditions change
25. Bilateral absent H-reflexes at rest in an adult most strongly suggests which diagnosis? → Diffuse peripheral neuropathy
26. Why is confidentiality critical in patient interactions? → To comply with privacy laws and uphold trust
27. Which condition characteristically demonstrates a marked incrementing response on high-frequency repetitive nerve stimulation or post-exercise testing? → Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS)
28. A diabetic patient presenting with a painful, asymmetric motor neuropathy affecting the thigh is most likely experiencing: → Diabetic amyotrophy (lumbosacral radiculoplexus neuropathy)
29. The lateral femoral cutaneous nerve exits the pelvis near which anatomical landmark? → Inguinal ligament near ASIS
30. When a ABEM professional encounters an unexpected result during a technical procedure, the FIRST action should be to: → Stop, assess the situation, and determine whether to proceed or seek guidance