CMT Monitoring Techniques and Equipment 4

Question 1

Which alarm setting on a cardiac monitor alerts staff to an excessively slow heart rate?

Accepted Answer

Low rate alarm

Answer

The low rate alarm activates when heart rate falls below the set threshold, typically 50-60 bpm, alerting staff to bradycardia.

Question 2

What is the recommended electrode position for the LL (left leg) electrode in a standard placement?

Accepted Answer

Left lower abdomen or left inner thigh

Answer

The LL electrode is placed on the left lower abdomen or left inner thigh, positioned to represent the left leg as in a standard 12-lead ECG.

Question 3

A cardiac monitor alarm for 'leads off' is triggered. What is the FIRST step the monitor technician should take?

Accepted Answer

Visually assess the patient and check electrode/lead wire connections

Answer

The first step is always patient assessment combined with checking electrode and lead wire connections, as the alarm may be technical or indicate a true emergency.

Question 4

What is the primary advantage of a central monitoring station (nurse's station monitor) over bedside monitoring alone?

Accepted Answer

It allows continuous observation of multiple patients by dedicated monitoring staff

Answer

Central monitoring allows trained technicians to simultaneously observe multiple patients' rhythms, improving response to arrhythmias especially when bedside nurses are busy.

Question 5

Muscle artifact (myopotential interference) on a cardiac monitor is best reduced by:

Accepted Answer

Placing electrodes over bony prominences rather than muscle

Answer

Placing electrodes over bony prominences minimizes skeletal muscle electrical activity from being picked up as artifact.

(CMT) Certified Cardiac Monitor Technician Practice Test

(CMT) Certified Cardiac Monitor Technician Practice Test

CMT Monitoring Techniques and Equipment 4