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

Applying a thick layer of lotion to the skin

Answer

Shaving the entire chest regardless of hair

Answer

Applying warm water only

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

Sitting upright at 90 degrees

Answer

Left lateral decubitus

Answer

Semi-Fowler's position at 45 degrees

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

Involves a small electrical shock to stimulate the heart

Answer

May cause brief chest discomfort

Answer

Requires fasting for at least 4 hours beforehand

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

Hypertension

Answer

Obesity

Answer

Diabetes

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

Proceed quickly without explanation to reduce wait time

Answer

Ask the patient to sign a waiver

Answer

Reschedule the test for another day

Question 6

What should be documented on every EKG tracing before it is submitted for physician interpretation?

Accepted Answer

Patient name, date of birth, date and time of recording, and technician ID

Answer

Technician's full medical history

Answer

Technician's personal contact information

Answer

The brand of electrodes used