CABT Patient Monitoring 5

Question 1

Which condition would cause a falsely elevated SpO2 reading on a standard two-wavelength pulse oximeter?

Accepted Answer

Carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) poisoning

Answer

Standard pulse oximeters cannot distinguish carboxyhemoglobin from oxyhemoglobin at 660 nm, causing COHb to be misread as oxygenated hemoglobin and falsely elevating SpO2.

Question 2

The 'fast flush test' (square wave test) on an invasive arterial line is performed to assess:

Accepted Answer

Dynamic response (natural frequency and damping coefficient) of the fluid-filled monitoring system

Answer

The fast flush test evaluates the dynamic response of the arterial line system by introducing a brief high-pressure flush and observing the oscillatory response pattern on the waveform.

Question 3

A patient's telemetry monitor shows a Mobitz Type II second-degree AV block. The biomedical technician should:

Accepted Answer

Immediately notify clinical staff, as this rhythm can progress to complete heart block

Answer

Mobitz Type II block has a high risk of progressing to complete (third-degree) AV block and cardiac arrest, requiring urgent clinical notification.

Question 4

Intracranial pressure (ICP) monitoring via an intraventricular catheter (EVD) is zeroed to the level of the:

Accepted Answer

Foramen of Monro (external auditory meatus as surface landmark)

Answer

ICP is referenced to the level of the foramen of Monro, which is approximated at the bedside by the external auditory meatus (ear canal).

Question 5

Which interference source is most likely to cause an artifact that mimics ventricular fibrillation on an ECG monitor?

Accepted Answer

60 Hz AC interference from a faulty electrode or lead wire

Answer

Severe 60 Hz AC interference can produce a coarse, irregular waveform on the ECG that visually resembles ventricular fibrillation, requiring electrode and lead wire inspection.

(CABT) Certified Associate in Biomedical Technology Practice Test

(CABT) Certified Associate in Biomedical Technology Practice Test

CABT Patient Monitoring 5