DC Cardiac Pacemaker Therapy & Management 3

Question 1

What does the letter 'R' in the fourth position of the NBG pacemaker code signify?

Accepted Answer

Rate-adaptive (rate-responsive) pacing

Answer

The fourth position 'R' in the NBG code indicates rate-adaptive pacing, where the pacemaker increases or decreases rate based on physiologic sensors such as accelerometers or minute ventilation.

Question 2

When a magnet is applied over a permanent pacemaker, the expected response is:

Accepted Answer

Asynchronous (fixed-rate) pacing regardless of intrinsic activity

Answer

Magnet application causes most permanent pacemakers to revert to an asynchronous fixed-rate mode (e.g., VOO or DOO), overriding the sensing circuitry.

Question 3

The AV delay in a dual-chamber pacemaker is typically programmed to which range?

Accepted Answer

120–200 ms

Answer

The AV delay is typically programmed between 120–200 ms to mimic the normal PR interval and ensure optimal ventricular filling before contraction.

Question 4

What is the primary concern regarding electrocautery use during surgery in a pacemaker-dependent patient?

Accepted Answer

Oversensing of electromagnetic interference causing inhibition of pacing output

Answer

Electrocautery generates electromagnetic interference that can be sensed by the pacemaker, inhibiting pacing output and potentially causing life-threatening bradycardia in pacemaker-dependent patients.

Question 5

When a magnet is applied over an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD), the primary effect is:

Accepted Answer

Tachyarrhythmia detection and shock therapy are suspended

Answer

Magnet application to an ICD suspends tachyarrhythmia detection and shock therapy without affecting the device's bradycardia pacing function, unlike the asynchronous pacing response seen with pacemakers.

(DC) Dysrhythmia Certification Practice Test

(DC) Dysrhythmia Certification Practice Test

DC Cardiac Pacemaker Therapy & Management 3