FREE PCT EKG Lead Placement & Rhythm Recognition Questions and Answers

Question 1

When placing the precordial leads for a 12-lead EKG, where should the PCT place the V4 lead?

Accepted Answer

5th intercostal space, midclavicular line

Answer

4th intercostal space, right sternal border

Answer

5th intercostal space, anterior axillary line

Answer

4th intercostal space, left sternal border

Question 2

A PCT is preparing to perform an EKG on a patient with a left leg amputation below the knee. Where should the left leg electrode be placed?

Accepted Answer

On the left lower abdomen/torso

Answer

On the right lower leg

Answer

On the left upper chest

Answer

Skip the left leg electrode entirely

Question 3

Which of the following describes Normal Sinus Rhythm on an EKG strip?

Accepted Answer

Regular rhythm, rate 60-100/min, P wave before each QRS

Answer

Irregularly irregular rhythm with no discernible P waves

Answer

Regular rhythm, rate > 100/min, wide QRS complexes

Answer

Regular rhythm, rate < 60/min, P wave before each QRS

Question 4

A PCT notes an EKG rhythm that is 'irregularly irregular' with no clear P waves. This is most characteristic of which arrhythmia?

Accepted Answer

Atrial Fibrillation

Answer

Ventricular Tachycardia

Answer

Sinus Bradycardia

Answer

Normal Sinus Rhythm

Question 5

What is the most likely cause of a wandering baseline artifact on an EKG tracing?

Accepted Answer

Patient movement or loose electrodes

Answer

Electrical interference from other equipment

Answer

A life-threatening arrhythmia

Answer

Incorrect lead placement

Question 6

A PCT identifies a rhythm with a rate of 160 beats per minute, a regular rhythm, and wide, bizarre-looking QRS complexes. This is most likely:

Accepted Answer

Ventricular Tachycardia

Answer

Atrial Fibrillation

Answer

Sinus Tachycardia

Answer

Asystole

Question 7

The Angel of Louis is an anatomical landmark used to help locate which intercostal space for EKG lead placement?

Accepted Answer

Second intercostal space

Answer

First intercostal space

Answer

Fourth intercostal space

Answer

Fifth intercostal space