Echocardiogram Patient Care and Safety in Echocardiography

Question 1

Before performing a transthoracic echocardiogram, what is the most important safety step regarding patient identification?

Accepted Answer

Confirm patient name and date of birth using two identifiers

Answer

Two-identifier verification (e.g., name and date of birth) is the standard patient safety protocol to prevent wrong-patient errors.

Question 2

Which position is most commonly used for transthoracic echocardiography to improve image quality while maintaining patient comfort?

Accepted Answer

Left lateral decubitus

Answer

The left lateral decubitus position brings the heart closer to the chest wall, improving acoustic windows and image quality.

Question 3

What is the primary infection control measure an echocardiography technician must perform before and after each patient contact?

Accepted Answer

Perform hand hygiene with soap or alcohol-based sanitizer

Answer

Hand hygiene is the single most effective measure to prevent healthcare-associated infections and is required before and after every patient contact.

Question 4

When disinfecting an ultrasound transducer after a routine transthoracic study, which level of disinfection is required?

Accepted Answer

Low-level disinfection

Answer

Transducers used for non-invasive transthoracic studies contact only intact skin and require low-level disinfection per CDC guidelines.

Question 5

A patient develops shortness of breath and oxygen saturation drops to 88% during a stress echocardiogram. What is the technician's first action?

Accepted Answer

Immediately terminate the stress test and notify the supervising physician

Answer

Significant hypoxia is an absolute indication to stop a stress test; the technician must stop the test and alert the supervising physician immediately.

(Echocardiogram) Certified Echocardiogram Technician Practice Test

(Echocardiogram) Certified Echocardiogram Technician Practice Test

Echocardiogram Patient Care and Safety in Echocardiography