CET CET Patient Preparation and Safety

Question 1

Before performing a 12-lead EKG, what is the correct patient skin preparation step to improve electrode adhesion?

Accepted Answer

Clip or shave excess hair and clean the skin with alcohol

Answer

Clipping hair and cleaning with alcohol removes oils and debris, ensuring good electrode-to-skin contact for a quality tracing.

Question 2

Which patient position is standard for a routine resting 12-lead EKG?

Accepted Answer

Supine with legs uncrossed

Answer

The supine position with legs uncrossed is standard because it reduces muscle artifact and ensures consistent lead placement.

Question 3

A patient is anxious and shivering during an EKG. What should the EKG technician do?

Accepted Answer

Cover the patient with a blanket and allow them to relax before recording

Answer

Shivering causes muscle artifact; warming and calming the patient before recording produces a cleaner tracing.

Question 4

When should an EKG technician verify patient identity before performing a procedure?

Accepted Answer

Using at least two patient identifiers before every procedure

Answer

The Joint Commission requires two patient identifiers (e.g., name and date of birth) before every procedure to prevent errors.

Question 5

Which infection control practice is MOST important before and after touching each patient during EKG testing?

Accepted Answer

Performing hand hygiene

Answer

Hand hygiene is the single most effective infection control measure before and after every patient contact.

(CET) Certified EKG Technician Practice Test