CCT Patient Care and Safety 2

Question 1

A patient tells the CCT technician they are allergic to latex before an ECG. What is the technician's primary responsibility?

Accepted Answer

Use latex-free supplies and alert the care team, documenting the allergy in the patient's record

Answer

Using latex-free gloves and electrode supplies, informing the care team, and documenting the allergy are all essential steps. Latex allergy can range from local dermatitis to life-threatening anaphylaxis.

Question 2

What is the correct protocol for verifying patient identity before performing an ECG?

Accepted Answer

Use two patient identifiers, such as asking the patient to state their full name and date of birth, then compare with the order/wristband

Answer

The Joint Commission requires at least two patient identifiers (name and date of birth, or name and medical record number) before any procedure. This prevents wrong-patient errors.

Question 3

A patient experiences a vasovagal syncope episode during electrode placement for an ECG. What should the technician do first?

Accepted Answer

Ensure the patient's airway is maintained and lower their head (Trendelenburg or supine position), then call for help

Answer

In vasovagal syncope, the immediate priority is positioning the patient supine with legs elevated (Trendelenburg) to restore cerebral perfusion, secure the airway, and summon clinical help.

Question 4

When performing ECGs on patients in an ICU with multiple IV pumps and infusion devices running, which precaution is most important for preventing electrical interference?

Accepted Answer

Ensure all ECG cables are routed away from IV pump power cords and run the ECG machine on battery power if possible

Answer

Electrical interference from nearby devices causes 60 Hz (AC) artifact on the ECG. Routing cables away from power sources and using battery power on the ECG machine reduces common-mode noise from the electrical environment.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes the proper technique for safely disconnecting an ECG machine from a patient in a hospital setting?

Accepted Answer

Remove lead wires from electrodes first, then remove electrodes from the skin, starting with the limbs

Answer

Lead wires should be detached from electrodes first, then electrodes gently removed from skin (starting with limb leads before precordial), to avoid pulling on the skin or accidentally disconnecting monitoring leads in patients who need continuous monitoring.

CCT - Certified Cardiographic Technician Exam Practice Test

CCT - Certified Cardiographic Technician Exam Practice Test

CCT Patient Care and Safety 2