CET CET Patient Preparation and Safety 2

Question 1

What is the purpose of using conductive gel or gel-based electrodes during an EKG?

Accepted Answer

To reduce skin resistance and improve electrical signal transmission

Answer

Conductive gel lowers skin impedance, allowing the EKG machine to detect weak cardiac electrical signals accurately.

Question 2

Which statement about patient consent for a routine EKG is correct?

Accepted Answer

Implied consent is generally acceptable for routine diagnostic EKGs

Answer

Routine non-invasive procedures such as EKGs typically fall under implied consent when the patient cooperates with the procedure.

Question 3

A patient reports chest pain during EKG preparation. What should the EKG technician do?

Accepted Answer

Stop the procedure, activate emergency protocols, and notify clinical staff immediately

Answer

Chest pain is a potential cardiac emergency; the technician must notify clinical staff and activate emergency protocols immediately.

Question 4

To reduce somatic (muscle) artifact on an EKG tracing, the technician should instruct the patient to:

Accepted Answer

Hold their breath and remain still during the recording

Answer

Remaining still and holding a normal breath during recording minimizes skeletal muscle electrical interference.

Question 5

When removing pre-gelled disposable electrodes after an EKG, the technician should:

Accepted Answer

Peel slowly while supporting the skin, especially in elderly or fragile patients

Answer

Slow, controlled removal while supporting the skin prevents skin tears, particularly in patients with fragile or elderly skin.

(CET) Certified EKG Technician Practice Test