Practice Test Geeks(CABT) Certified Associate in Biomedical Technology Practice Test
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Medical Equipment Operations Flashcards

7 cards from real CABT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Medical Equipment Operations flashcards as text

  1. What is the primary purpose of the 'patient return electrode' (dispersive pad) in monopolar electrosurgery?

    Answer: To provide a grounding path that minimizes current density at the skin contact site

    The dispersive pad spreads return current over a large surface area, reducing current density and preventing burns at the electrode site.

  2. In a hospital isolation transformer system, what does an increase in line isolation monitor (LIM) alarm indicate?

    Answer: A ground fault has occurred in the isolated power system

    A LIM alarm indicates that hazard current from a fault has reached a threshold (typically 2 mA), warning staff that the isolation of the power system has been compromised.

  3. Which ventilator mode delivers a set tidal volume regardless of airway resistance or compliance changes?

    Answer: Volume Control Ventilation (VCV)

    Volume Control Ventilation delivers a fixed tidal volume with each breath, with airway pressure varying based on lung mechanics.

  4. A syringe pump is programmed for 5 mL/hr but delivers only 2 mL/hr. Which mechanical issue is most likely responsible?

    Answer: Incorrect syringe size selected in the pump settings

    If the wrong syringe size is selected, the pump miscalculates the plunger travel distance needed, resulting in significant delivery errors.

  5. What is 'microshock' in the context of biomedical equipment safety?

    Answer: A small current (as low as 10 µA) applied directly to cardiac tissue causing ventricular fibrillation

    Microshock occurs when a very small current bypasses normal skin resistance via intracardiac catheters, which can induce ventricular fibrillation at currents as low as 10 µA.

  6. Which gas is used as the primary drive gas for most pneumatically powered ventilators in hospitals?

    Answer: Medical air at 50 psi

    Medical air at 50 psi is the standard drive gas for pneumatically powered ventilators because it is abundant, safe, and meets the required pressure for reliable operation.

  7. An ECG monitor displays a 60 Hz artifact waveform pattern. What is the most likely source?

    Answer: Electrical interference from AC power sources

    60 Hz artifact is classic electrical interference from alternating current power lines or nearby electrical equipment coupling into the ECG signal.