CET ECG Artifact Troubleshooting 3

Question 1

A patient with Parkinson's disease produces a continuous tremor artifact on the ECG that closely mimics atrial flutter waves. Which feature best distinguishes true atrial flutter from tremor artifact?

Accepted Answer

Flutter waves maintain a consistent morphology and rate across all leads

Answer

True atrial flutter produces sawtooth waves of uniform morphology at a consistent rate (typically 250–350 bpm) in all leads, whereas tremor artifact varies in amplitude and regularity.

Question 2

During electrode application, the technician notices the patient has very oily skin. Which preparation step is MOST important to reduce motion artifact?

Accepted Answer

Cleanse the skin with an alcohol wipe and allow it to dry completely

Answer

Oil creates a barrier between the electrode and skin; cleansing removes it, and allowing the alcohol to dry prevents impedance changes from solvent residue.

Question 3

What is the primary reason limb lead cables should not be draped over the patient's body during recording?

Accepted Answer

Cable movement generates motion artifact via triboelectric effect

Answer

The triboelectric effect causes charge generation when cables rub against the patient's skin or gown, introducing motion artifact into the signal.

Question 4

An ECG recorded in the ICU shows 60 Hz interference only when a specific IV infusion pump is running. The best corrective action is:

Accepted Answer

Reposition the ECG lead wires away from the pump and its power cable

Answer

Routing ECG lead wires away from the power cable of the infusion pump reduces electromagnetic coupling that causes 60 Hz artifact.

Question 5

A flat line appears in lead V5 while all other leads record normally. After checking the lead wire connection, the technician should next:

Accepted Answer

Inspect the V5 electrode for adequate gel and skin contact

Answer

A flat line in a single precordial lead most often indicates the electrode has lost contact with the skin, making adequate gel and adhesion the next check.

(CET) Certified Electrocardiogram Technician Practice Test

(CET) Certified Electrocardiogram Technician Practice Test

CET ECG Artifact Troubleshooting 3