CET CET Patient Preparation and Safety 1

Question 1

Before performing a 12-lead EKG, what is the correct patient skin preparation step to improve electrode adhesion?

Accepted Answer

Clip or shave excess hair and clean the skin with alcohol

Answer

Apply lotion to the skin

Answer

Warm the skin with a heating pad

Answer

Pinch the skin firmly before placing electrodes

Question 2

Which patient position is standard for a routine resting 12-lead EKG?

Accepted Answer

Supine with legs uncrossed

Answer

Sitting upright at 90 degrees

Answer

Left lateral decubitus

Answer

Semi-Fowler's at 45 degrees

Question 3

A patient is anxious and shivering during an EKG. What should the EKG technician do?

Accepted Answer

Cover the patient with a blanket and allow them to relax before recording

Answer

Proceed immediately and note the artifact

Answer

Apply extra electrodes to compensate

Answer

Increase the filter settings and begin the test

Question 4

When should an EKG technician verify patient identity before performing a procedure?

Accepted Answer

Using at least two patient identifiers before every procedure

Answer

Only if the patient appears confused

Answer

After completing the EKG to save time

Answer

Once per shift for repeat patients

Question 5

Which infection control practice is MOST important before and after touching each patient during EKG testing?

Accepted Answer

Performing hand hygiene

Answer

Wearing a gown and mask

Answer

Changing electrode lead wires

Answer

Disinfecting the EKG machine display

Question 6

A patient states they have a pacemaker. What is the first action the EKG technician should take?

Accepted Answer

Document the pacemaker on the requisition and proceed normally

Answer

Refuse to perform the EKG

Answer

Skip precordial leads to avoid interference

Answer

Notify the ordering provider before proceeding