Certified EkG technician (CET) Practice Exam

What should an EKG technician do upon noticing an accelerated idioventricular rhythm during a tracing?

1. Perform advanced cardiac life support

2. Call for help and stay with the patient

3. Immediately initiate CPR

4. Adjust settings on the EKG machine

The correct answer is: Call for help and stay with the patient

When an EKG technician notices an accelerated idioventricular rhythm, which is characterized by a heart rate that is typically between 40 to 100 beats per minute and originates from the ventricles, the technician's priority should be to ensure the patient's safety and stability. By calling for help and staying with the patient, the technician can provide necessary support and monitor the patient for any changes in their condition while professional help arrives. This approach is vital because the accelerated idioventricular rhythm can indicate underlying issues such as a myocardial infarction or a response to bradycardia. Remaining with the patient allows for continuous observation of their vital signs and symptoms, which is crucial for any immediate interventions that may be needed. While advanced cardiac life support or CPR may be necessary in scenarios involving more critical rhythms, the key with an accelerated idioventricular rhythm is that it may not require such immediate life-saving measures unless the patient is symptomatic. Adjusting settings on the EKG machine does not address the patient's immediate condition and is not a priority in this situation. Therefore, ensuring the patient's safety by calling for assistance while remaining with them is the most appropriate action.