Patient Care and Safety Flashcards
6 cards from real CCT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Patient Care and Safety flashcards as text
A patient tells the CCT technician they are allergic to latex before an ECG. What is the technician's primary responsibility?
Answer: Use latex-free supplies and alert the care team, documenting the allergy in the patient's record
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.
What is the correct protocol for verifying patient identity before performing an ECG?
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
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.
A patient experiences a vasovagal syncope episode during electrode placement for an ECG. What should the technician do first?
Answer: Ensure the patient's airway is maintained and lower their head (Trendelenburg or supine position), then call for help
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.
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?
Answer: Ensure all ECG cables are routed away from IV pump power cords and run the ECG machine on battery power if possible
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.
Which of the following best describes the proper technique for safely disconnecting an ECG machine from a patient in a hospital setting?
Answer: Remove lead wires from electrodes first, then remove electrodes from the skin, starting with the limbs
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.
A patient undergoing an ECG asks the technician what the test is for. What is the most appropriate response?
Answer: Explain that the ECG records the heart's electrical activity and is used by the doctor to evaluate heart rhythm and function, then refer clinical questions to the physician
The technician should provide a clear, accurate description of the procedure (what an ECG does) while appropriately referring clinical interpretation and diagnostic meaning to the ordering physician, respecting the scope of practice.