CCT CCT Cardiac Diagnostic Testing & Equipment 3

Question 1

ST-segment depression in leads V4–V6 during exercise stress testing is most indicative of:

Accepted Answer

Left anterior descending (LAD) artery ischemia

Answer

Horizontal or downsloping ST depression in the anterior and lateral leads during exercise indicates subendocardial ischemia in the LAD distribution.

Question 2

When preparing a patient for a nuclear stress test, the cardiac technician should ask about use of which substances that must be withheld beforehand?

Accepted Answer

Caffeine and certain heart medications that affect the test

Answer

Caffeine blocks adenosine receptors and can negate pharmacologic stress; certain medications like beta-blockers must also be withheld to allow maximum heart rate response.

Question 3

A wide QRS complex (>120 ms) on ECG in a patient with known cardiac disease most likely represents:

Accepted Answer

Bundle branch block or ventricular conduction delay

Answer

A QRS duration exceeding 120 ms indicates slowed ventricular depolarization, typically due to left or right bundle branch block or other intraventricular conduction delay.

Question 4

During cardiac catheterization, which artery is most commonly used as vascular access in the United States?

Accepted Answer

Radial artery

Answer

The transradial approach has become the preferred access site in the U.S. due to lower rates of bleeding complications and earlier patient ambulation compared to femoral access.

Question 5

A normal pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) range during right heart catheterization is:

Accepted Answer

6–12 mmHg

Answer

PCWP of 6–12 mmHg reflects normal left atrial pressure; values above 18 mmHg indicate elevated left-sided filling pressure consistent with left heart failure or mitral disease.

(CCT) Certified Cardiac Technician Practice Test

(CCT) Certified Cardiac Technician Practice Test

CCT CCT Cardiac Diagnostic Testing & Equipment 3