CET ECG Artifact Troubleshooting 2

Question 1

A patient is shivering during an ECG recording, producing irregular, high-frequency baseline noise. What is the most appropriate first action?

Accepted Answer

Cover the patient with a warm blanket and wait

Answer

Shivering causes muscle artifact; warming the patient reduces involuntary muscle activity and resolves the artifact.

Question 2

Which ECG lead is most susceptible to respiratory artifact due to its electrode placement along the thoracic axis?

Accepted Answer

Lead II

Answer

Lead II, with electrodes on the right arm and left leg, aligns with the craniocaudal thoracic axis most affected by diaphragmatic movement during breathing.

Question 3

An ECG shows intermittent sharp spikes at irregular intervals unrelated to the cardiac cycle. What is the most likely cause?

Accepted Answer

Loose electrode connection

Answer

Intermittent sharp spikes that occur randomly are a hallmark of a loose or intermittently connected electrode.

Question 4

When troubleshooting AC interference on an ECG, which action should be performed LAST?

Accepted Answer

Engage the ECG machine's built-in 60 Hz notch filter as a permanent solution

Answer

The notch filter should be a last resort because it can distort ST segments and T-wave morphology, potentially masking clinically relevant changes.

Question 5

A technician notices the ECG baseline drifts upward when the patient inhales and downward when the patient exhales. This pattern is best described as:

Accepted Answer

Respiratory baseline wander

Answer

Cyclical baseline movement synchronized with breathing is classic respiratory baseline wander caused by impedance changes as the chest wall expands and contracts.

(CET) Certified Electrocardiogram Technician Practice Test

(CET) Certified Electrocardiogram Technician Practice Test

CET ECG Artifact Troubleshooting 2