CET CET Equipment Operation and Maintenance 2

Question 1

An EKG machine displays a 'lead fault' or 'lead off' message. What is the MOST likely cause?

Accepted Answer

An electrode has detached or has poor skin contact

Answer

A lead fault error indicates the machine cannot detect a signal from one or more electrodes, most often due to detachment or poor contact.

Question 2

What does a 'wandering baseline' artifact on a rhythm strip most commonly indicate regarding equipment?

Accepted Answer

The electrode has degraded or lost contact with the skin

Answer

Wandering baseline is most commonly caused by an electrode losing secure skin contact due to drying gel or patient movement.

Question 3

When transporting a portable EKG machine between patient rooms, the technician should:

Accepted Answer

Coil and secure lead wires loosely to prevent wire damage and tripping hazards

Answer

Properly coiling and securing lead wires prevents internal wire breaks and protects staff and patients from tripping hazards.

Question 4

A technician notices the EKG paper has a pink tint at the edges, indicating it is about to run out. The correct action is to:

Accepted Answer

Replace the paper roll before the next patient recording

Answer

The pink or colored edge is a thermal paper indicator signaling the roll is almost depleted; replacing it ensures complete, legible recordings.

Question 5

Which type of EKG paper is used in most modern electrocardiographs?

Accepted Answer

Thermal (heat-sensitive) paper

Answer

Modern EKG machines use thermal paper that produces the tracing by heat rather than ink, eliminating the need for ink cartridges.

(CET) Certified EKG Technician Practice Test