CET ECG Equipment Operation & Maintenance

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of calibrating an ECG machine?

Accepted Answer

To ensure accurate output of waveforms

Answer

Calibrating an ECG machine is a crucial maintenance step that involves adjusting its settings to a known standard. This process ensures that the machine accurately measures and displays the heart's electrical activity, producing waveforms that are correctly scaled and precisely interpretable. Proper calibration is essential for reliable diagnostic readings.

Question 2

Which component of the ECG machine amplifies the electrical signal from the heart?

Accepted Answer

Amplifier

Answer

The electrical signals generated by the heart are naturally very small and weak. The amplifier within the ECG machine is specifically designed to take these minute signals, picked up by the electrodes, and significantly increase their voltage. This amplification makes the signals strong enough to be processed, filtered, and displayed as clear, readable waveforms on the ECG output.

Question 3

How often should ECG electrodes be replaced?

Accepted Answer

After each use

Answer

ECG electrodes are designed for single use to ensure optimal conductivity, adhesion, and hygiene. Reusing electrodes can lead to several issues, including dried conductive gel, contamination from skin oils, or reduced stickiness, all of which can result in poor signal quality, artifacts, and inaccurate ECG readings. Replacing them after each use guarantees the best possible contact and signal integrity.

Question 4

Which maintenance step helps prevent artifacts in ECG readings?

Accepted Answer

Cleaning electrodes and checking connections

Answer

Artifacts, which are unwanted disturbances or noise in an ECG reading, often stem from poor electrode contact or loose lead connections. Regularly cleaning the patient's skin where electrodes are placed, ensuring fresh electrodes are used, and verifying that all lead connections are secure are vital steps. These actions minimize electrical interference and motion artifacts, leading to clearer, more accurate, and diagnostically reliable ECG tracings.

Question 5

Why is it important to store ECG machines properly?

Accepted Answer

To protect the machine from environmental damage

Answer

Proper storage of an ECG machine is essential to protect its sensitive electronic components from various environmental hazards. Keeping it in a clean, dry, and temperature-controlled environment shields it from dust, moisture, extreme temperatures, and potential physical damage. This care prolongs the machine's lifespan, maintains its accuracy, and ensures it functions reliably for patient care.

(CET) Certified Electrocardiogram Technician Practice Test

(CET) Certified Electrocardiogram Technician Practice Test

CET ECG Equipment Operation & Maintenance