EKG Patient Preparation & Clinical Procedures Flashcards
6 cards from real EKG certification Certification practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 EKG Patient Preparation & Clinical Procedures flashcards as text
A patient reports taking a beta-blocker medication. How should the EKG technician respond?
Answer: Note the medication on the requisition form and proceed with the EKG normally
Beta-blockers can slow heart rate and affect rhythm, so they should be documented on the EKG requisition; the technician proceeds normally and the physician interprets accordingly.
For a female patient with large breasts, where should the V3–V5 electrodes be placed?
Answer: Beneath breast tissue in the standard anatomical positions
Electrodes should be placed beneath breast tissue to maintain standard anatomical positions; placement on top of breast tissue alters lead axis and waveform morphology.
A patient has a pacemaker. Which of the following is TRUE about obtaining an EKG on this patient?
Answer: The EKG can be performed normally; pacemaker spikes will appear on the tracing
EKGs can be performed normally on pacemaker patients; the tracing will show pacemaker spike artifacts followed by paced waveforms, which the physician interprets.
What is the correct technique for locating the V1 electrode position on a patient?
Answer: Palpate the second intercostal space at the right sternal border, then count down two spaces
The standard technique is to palpate the sternal angle (angle of Louis), then locate the second rib and second intercostal space, counting down to the fourth intercostal space at the right sternal border.
What should an EKG technician do if a patient loses consciousness during the procedure?
Answer: Immediately call for help, activate emergency response, and stay with the patient
Patient safety is the absolute priority; the technician must immediately call for emergency assistance, remain with the patient, and initiate basic life support if trained and needed.
How should an EKG technician respond if a patient refuses the procedure?
Answer: Document the refusal, inform the ordering provider, and respect the patient's decision
Patient autonomy must be respected; the technician documents the refusal, notifies the ordering provider, and does not perform the procedure against the patient's wishes.