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NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Identify the heart rhythm shown in the following EKG strip: Lead I Lead II Lead III Normal P waves Normal P waves Normal P waves Regular QRS Wide QRS complexes Wide QRS complexes Regular T waves Inverted T waves
Correct — D. Answer: Sinus rhythm progressing to ventricular tachycardia Ventricular tachycardia is characterized by wide, bizarre QRS complexes with an absence of any real rhythm. Prompt treatment is required to revert the patient to sinus rhythm. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which heart rhythms on an EKG strip show P-P intervals that are interrupted by a premature beat?
Correct — A. Answer: Regular but interrupted rhythms These types of rhythms are considered regular, interrupted by premature beats or pauses. They may look irregular at first, but a closer inspection will show one beat or a burst of several beats followed by a regular P-P interval. These premature beats can occur at any time during the rhythm. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
An EKG strip shows a QT interval measured from the beginning of the Q wave to the end of the T wave that spans 9 small squares. Using the standard conversion factor that each small square represents 0.04 seconds, determine the QT interval duration.
Correct — C. Answer: 0.36 seconds The QT interval is determined by counting the small squares between the beginning of the Q wave and the end of the T wave. With 9 small squares, the duration is calculated as 9 x 0.04 = 0.36 seconds. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which of the following is part of the criteria for recognizing ventricular tachycardia (VT) on an EKG?
Correct — B. Answer: Wide QRS complexes The criteria for recognizing ventricular tachycardia (VT) on an EKG include the following: - The presence of wide QRS complexes (greater than 0.12 seconds). - The QRS complexes are typically broad and bizarre in appearance. - P waves are usually absent or not related to the QRS complexes. - There is usually a rapid heart rate, often between 100 and 250 bpm. - The rhythm is typically regular, but it can be slightly irregular. - The presence of capture beats or fusion beats can indicate VT. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which characteristic of cardiac cells enables them to generate electrical impulses spontaneously without external stimulus?
Correct — D. Answer: Automaticity Automaticity is the cell's ability to generate electrical impulses spontaneously without needing any external stimulus. Contractility is the ability to contract the cardiac muscle. Conductivity is the ability to pass electrical impulses along neighboring cells. Excitability is the ability to respond to electrical impulses through depolarization. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Identify the correct sequence of waves and intervals on a standard EKG tracing.
Correct — C. Correct answer: P wave → PR interval → QRS complex → ST segment → T wave This sequence represents the standard progression of electrical activity during a normal cardiac cycle. The P wave signifies atrial depolarization, the PR interval includes atrial depolarization and AV nodal delay, the QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization, the ST segment indicates the period before repolarization of the ventricles, and the T wave signifies ventricular repolarization. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
What is the correct method to determine if a rhythm on an EKG is regular or irregular?
Correct — A. To determine if a rhythm on an EKG is regular or irregular, you should compare the R-R intervals. If the intervals between R waves are consistent, the rhythm is regular. This is a critical step in EKG analysis and helps in identifying various arrhythmias. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which part of the EKG illustrates the duration of the ventricular depolarization?
Correct — C. Answer: QRS complex The QRS complex represents the duration of ventricular depolarization. The P wave represents atrial depolarization, the PR interval represents the time between the start of atrial depolarization and the start of ventricular depolarization. The QT interval represents the time from the start of ventricular depolarization to the end of ventricular repolarization. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
How would you address the artifact shown below?
Correct — A. Answer: Reposition the pacemaker catheter. Muscle tremors and baseline wander are typically resolved by asking the patient to lie still or ensuring they are warm and relaxed. However, a loss of capture due to a weak pacemaker signal often requires repositioning the pacemaker catheter. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which of the following is true regarding a left bundle branch block (LBBB)?
Correct — B. Answer: The QRS complex is prolonged A left bundle branch block (LBBB) results in the delayed or blocked conduction through the left bundle branch. This leads to a widening of the QRS complex on an EKG, typically over 0.12 seconds. The PR interval remains normal, and LBBB is not characterized by ST segment changes specific to lead III. Mobitz II block is a type of second-degree AV block, not related to LBBB. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Determine the cardiac rhythm shown in the following EKG excerpt. Segment Description P wave Absent QRS complex Normal Rhythm Irregularly Irregular Additional Notes No distinct P waves or flutter waves
Correct — D. Answer: Atrial fibrillation Atrial fibrillation is characterized by an irregularly irregular rhythm and the absence of distinct P waves. The QRS complexes are usually normal. Ventricular tachycardia typically shows wide QRS complexes and a regular rhythm. Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome usually presents with a short PR interval and a Delta wave. Type 1 AV block displays a prolonged PR interval with regular atrial and ventricular rhythms. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which type of cardiac arrhythmia is characterized by an electrical impulse originating from a location outside the atrioventricular (AV) node?
Correct — C. Answer: Ectopic rhythm An ectopic rhythm occurs when the electrical impulse originates from a location other than the atrioventricular (AV) node, leading to irregular heartbeats. Junctional rhythms originate from the AV node area and are not considered ectopic. Sinus bradycardia is a slower than normal heart rate originating from the sinus node. Atrio-ventricular block is characterized by delayed or blocked electrical signals between the atria and ventricles. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
What is the defining characteristic of atrial fibrillation?
Correct — B. Answer: Irregularly irregular rhythm without distinct P waves In atrial fibrillation, the hallmarks are an irregularly irregular rhythm and the absence of distinct P waves on the EKG. The atria do not contract properly, leading to disorganized electrical activity. Distinct P waves are seen in normal sinus rhythm and other types of atrial rhythms. A regular rhythm with a very high rate is more indicative of atrial flutter or supraventricular tachycardia. Wide QRS complexes without P waves could indicate ventricular tachycardia. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
How do changes in the QRS complex during a ventricular fibrillation episode reflect the underlying cardiac condition?
Correct — D. Answer: Disorganized electrical activity Ventricular fibrillation is characterized by rapid and erratic electrical impulses. This makes the QRS complexes appear irregular and uncoordinated on the ECG, reflecting a lack of effective heart contraction. Myocardial infarction, on the other hand, usually shows more consistent and distinct abnormalities like ST-segment elevation. Myocardial ischemia may present with abnormalities in the T wave rather than the QRS complex. Atrial fibrillation primarily affects the P wave and does not have the chaotic QRS complex seen in ventricular fibrillation. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
During which phase of the cardiac cycle do the atria contract, pushing blood into the ventricles?
Correct — C. Answer: Atrial systole Atrial systole is the phase of the cardiac cycle in which the atria contract, pushing blood into the ventricles. This precedes ventricular systole, where the ventricles contract to expel blood. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which of the following indicates a proper EKG lead placement for accurate cardiac monitoring?
Correct — B. Answer: Placing the chest leads at the correct anatomical landmarks Accurate EKG lead placement is crucial for obtaining a reliable reading. Chest leads should be placed correctly at specific anatomical landmarks (e.g., V1 at the 4th intercostal space to the right of the sternum). Incorrect placement can lead to misinterpretation of the cardiac rhythms. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which of the following leads is most commonly used to monitor the ST segment?
Correct — A. Answer: Lead V5 Lead V5 is most commonly utilized to monitor the ST segment due to its position over the left ventricle, where ischemic changes are often most apparent. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
In an EKG reading, if the atrial rate is measured at 75 bpm and the ventricular rate is recorded at 45 bpm, what condition is likely present?
Correct — C. Answer: AV block An AV block occurs when there is a delay or complete block in the conduction between the atria and ventricles. This results in the atria and ventricles beating independently, with the ventricular rate usually being slower than the atrial rate. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
What does the ST segment represent on an EKG?
Correct — C. Answer: The time from the end of ventricular depolarization to the start of ventricular repolarization The ST segment is the time from the end of ventricular depolarization to the start of ventricular repolarization. The T wave represents ventricular repolarization, and the QRS complex represents ventricular depolarization. The PR segment spans the end of atrial depolarization to the start of ventricular depolarization. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which of the following is not part of the standard precautions to prevent infection during an EKG procedure?
Correct — A. Answer: Administering antibiotics Administering antibiotics is not part of the standard precautions. Standard precautions include measures like wearing gloves, using hand sanitizer, and disinfecting equipment to prevent infection. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
What is the term for the measurement of the amount of oxygen carried by hemoglobin in the blood?
Correct — B. Answer: Oxygen saturation Oxygen saturation refers to the percentage of hemoglobin that is bound with oxygen in the blood. Blood pressure is the force of blood against the artery walls. Cardiac output is the amount of blood the heart pumps in one minute, and heart rate is the number of heartbeats per minute. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which of the following is not required to comply with OSHA standards in a healthcare setting?
Correct — A. Answer: A patient visiting for a routine check-up OSHA standards apply to employees and employers in healthcare settings focused on ensuring workplace safety and health. These include medical staff, maintenance personnel, and administrative workers. Patients, however, are not subject to OSHA regulations as they are not employees. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which of the following is not one of the three common complications that can occur with improper lead placement during an EKG?
Correct — D. Answer: Accurate wave measurements. Accurate wave measurements are not a complication of improper lead placement. Common complications of improper lead placement during an EKG include the following: Misdiagnosis of cardiac conditions Incorrect heart rate calculation Artifacts on the EKG -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Where is the lead V1 electrode placed?
Correct — B. Answer: Fourth intercostal space, right sternal border The V1 lead is placed in the fourth intercostal space to the right of the sternum. This placement provides critical views of the electrical activity of the right ventricle and septal wall of the heart. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
What is an essential first step before administering a Holter monitor to a patient?
Correct — D. Answer: Provide a detailed explanation of how the Holter monitor works and what to expect during the monitoring period. Before any procedure, it is crucial to educate the patient to reduce anxiety and ensure they understand the process. This explanation helps to alleviate any concerns they may have. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
In an EKG, which leads are defined as the chest leads?
Correct — D. Answer: Precordial leads The precordial leads, which include V1 to V6, are placed on the chest and provide a view of the heart's electrical activity from the transverse plane. Limb leads include RA, LA, RL, and LL, while augmented leads include aVR, aVL, and aVF. There is no such thing as terminal leads. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
As you prepare to attach electrodes to a 40-year-old male for a stress test, he inquires about the potential risks associated with the procedure. What would be your appropriate response?
Correct — B. Answer: Possible skin irritation from the adhesive A stress test is generally safe and only involves a minor risk of skin irritation due to the adhesive on the electrodes. The electrodes themselves do not cause burns, and there is no significant risk of a heart attack during the test. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
In the process of obtaining an EKG, understanding the various configurations and criteria for diagnosing heart conditions is crucial. Which of the following is not a typical finding associated with left bundle branch block (LBBB)?
Correct — D. Answer: RSR' pattern in V1 with ST-segment depression The criteria for an LBBB include: - QRS complex widened to greater than 0.12 seconds - Dominant S wave in V1 and V2 with broad, deep S waves - Absence of initial Q wave in leads I, V5, and V6 -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which of the following actions can cause an AC interference artifact on an EKG tracing?
Correct — C. Answer: Using an electric blanket AC interference is caused by electrical devices that are in close proximity to the EKG machine. A loose electrode can cause a wandering baseline artifact, not AC interference. Patient coughing can result in muscle artifacts, while deep breathing affects baseline sway. -
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam
Which of the following factors can cause a wandering baseline artifact on an EKG?
Correct — A. Answer: Patient's breathing pattern A wandering baseline artifact is often caused by movements related to a patient's breathing pattern. Somatic tremors are caused by patient tremors or shaking of the electric wires. Electrical interference causes a 60-cycle interference. A broken recording is due to a frayed or broken wire.
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam sample questions
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NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam Which of the following is not one of the three common complications that can occur with improper lead placement during an EKG?
A. Misdiagnosis of cardiac conditions
B. Incorrect heart rate calculation
C. Artifacts on the EKG
D. Accurate wave measurements ✓
Correct — D. Answer: Accurate wave measurements. Accurate wave measurements are not a complication of improper lead placement. Common complications of improper lead placement during an EKG include the following: Misdiagnosis of cardiac conditions Incorrect heart rate calculation Artifacts on the EKG
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam Where is the lead V1 electrode placed?
A. Fifth intercostal space, left midclavicular line
B. Fourth intercostal space, right sternal border ✓
C. Third intercostal space, left sternal border
D. Fifth intercostal space, right midclavicular line
Correct — B. Answer: Fourth intercostal space, right sternal border The V1 lead is placed in the fourth intercostal space to the right of the sternum. This placement provides critical views of the electrical activity of the right ventricle and septal wall of the heart.
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam What is an essential first step before administering a Holter monitor to a patient?
A. Attach the electrodes to the patient's chest.
B. Ensure the monitor has fresh batteries.
C. Instruct the patient to avoid certain physical activities.
D. Provide a detailed explanation of how the Holter monitor works and what to expect during the monitoring period. ✓
Correct — D. Answer: Provide a detailed explanation of how the Holter monitor works and what to expect during the monitoring period. Before any procedure, it is crucial to educate the patient to reduce anxiety and ensure they understand the process. This explanation helps to alleviate any concerns they may have.
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam In an EKG, which leads are defined as the chest leads?
A. Limb leads
B. Augmented leads
C. Terminal leads
D. Precordial leads ✓
Correct — D. Answer: Precordial leads The precordial leads, which include V1 to V6, are placed on the chest and provide a view of the heart's electrical activity from the transverse plane. Limb leads include RA, LA, RL, and LL, while augmented leads include aVR, aVL, and aVF. There is no such thing as terminal leads.
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam As you prepare to attach electrodes to a 40-year-old male for a stress test, he inquires about the potential risks associated with the procedure. What would be your appropriate response?
A. The test carries no risks whatsoever
B. Possible skin irritation from the adhesive ✓
C. Risk of severe burns from the electrodes
D. Possible heart attack during the test
Correct — B. Answer: Possible skin irritation from the adhesive A stress test is generally safe and only involves a minor risk of skin irritation due to the adhesive on the electrodes. The electrodes themselves do not cause burns, and there is no significant risk of a heart attack during the test.
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam In the process of obtaining an EKG, understanding the various configurations and criteria for diagnosing heart conditions is crucial. Which of the following is not a typical finding associated with left bundle branch block (LBBB)?
A. QRS duration greater than 0.12 seconds
B. Dominant S wave in V1
C. Broad and deep S wave in V1
D. RSR' pattern in V1 with ST-segment depression ✓
Correct — D. Answer: RSR' pattern in V1 with ST-segment depression The criteria for an LBBB include: - QRS complex widened to greater than 0.12 seconds - Dominant S wave in V1 and V2 with broad, deep S waves - Absence of initial Q wave in leads I, V5, and V6
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam Which of the following actions can cause an AC interference artifact on an EKG tracing?
A. Patient coughing
B. Deep breathing
C. Using an electric blanket ✓
D. A loose EKG electrode
Correct — C. Answer: Using an electric blanket AC interference is caused by electrical devices that are in close proximity to the EKG machine. A loose electrode can cause a wandering baseline artifact, not AC interference. Patient coughing can result in muscle artifacts, while deep breathing affects baseline sway.
NHA Certified EKG Technician (CET) Exam Which of the following factors can cause a wandering baseline artifact on an EKG?
A. Patient's breathing pattern ✓
B. A patient having tremors
C. Electrical interference
D. A broken wire
Correct — A. Answer: Patient's breathing pattern A wandering baseline artifact is often caused by movements related to a patient's breathing pattern. Somatic tremors are caused by patient tremors or shaking of the electric wires. Electrical interference causes a 60-cycle interference. A broken recording is due to a frayed or broken wire.
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Compliance, reporting and documentation
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