NRCMA EKG Basics 2

Question 1

Which EKG finding is most characteristic of hyperkalemia?

Accepted Answer

Peaked T waves

Answer

Hyperkalemia classically produces tall, peaked (tent-shaped) T waves on EKG.

Question 2

On a standard EKG, the PR interval is measured from the beginning of the P wave to the beginning of which wave?

Accepted Answer

Q wave

Answer

The PR interval spans from the onset of the P wave to the onset of the QRS complex (Q wave).

Question 3

A patient's EKG shows no visible P waves and an irregularly irregular rhythm. Which arrhythmia does this most likely represent?

Accepted Answer

Atrial fibrillation

Answer

Atrial fibrillation produces absent distinct P waves and an irregularly irregular ventricular response.

Question 4

The QT interval represents which phase of the cardiac cycle?

Accepted Answer

Total ventricular depolarization and repolarization

Answer

The QT interval encompasses the entire period of ventricular electrical activity — both depolarization and repolarization.

Question 5

Which lead configuration views the inferior wall of the heart?

Accepted Answer

Leads II, III, and aVF

Answer

The inferior leads — II, III, and aVF — reflect electrical activity from the bottom surface of the heart.

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