EKG certification Certification EKG Patient Preparation & Clinical Procedures

Question 1

Before placing EKG electrodes, a technician should prepare the skin by:

Accepted Answer

Lightly abrading and cleaning the skin with an alcohol wipe

Answer

Cleaning the skin with an alcohol wipe and lightly abrading it removes oils, dead skin cells, and moisture that increase electrode impedance.

Question 2

What position should a patient be in when a resting 12-lead EKG is performed?

Accepted Answer

Supine (lying flat) with arms at the sides

Answer

The patient should be supine with arms relaxed at the sides to standardize electrode position, minimize muscle artifact, and ensure reproducible results.

Question 3

When obtaining informed consent for a routine EKG, a technician should explain that the procedure:

Accepted Answer

Only records the heart's electrical activity and poses no electrical risk to the patient

Answer

A standard EKG is a passive recording of the heart's own electrical activity; no electricity is delivered to the patient and there is no risk of shock.

Question 4

Which of the following patient conditions requires the EKG technician to document a modified electrode placement?

Accepted Answer

Amputation of a limb

Answer

If a limb is amputated, the electrode must be placed on the stump or the closest available site, and the modification must be clearly documented on the tracing.

Question 5

How should a technician handle a patient who is extremely anxious about the EKG procedure?

Accepted Answer

Explain the procedure calmly, reassure the patient it is painless, and answer questions

Answer

Calm explanation and reassurance reduce patient anxiety, promote cooperation, and decrease the likelihood of somatic tremor artifact from tensed muscles.

EKG certification Practice Test

EKG certification Practice Test

EKG certification Certification EKG Patient Preparation & Clinical Procedures