CABT Medical Equipment Operations 3

Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

A ground fault has occurred in the isolated power system

Answer

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.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

Volume Control Ventilation (VCV)

Answer

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

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Incorrect syringe size selected in the pump settings

Answer

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

Question 5

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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.

(CABT) Certified Associate in Biomedical Technology Practice Test

(CABT) Certified Associate in Biomedical Technology Practice Test

CABT Medical Equipment Operations 3