Certified EkG technician (CET) Practice Exam

What term should a technician use to document when the pulse rhythm is not regular?

1. Weak

2. Irregular

3. Thready

4. Normal

The correct answer is: Irregular

The term "irregular" is accurately used to document a pulse rhythm that does not occur at consistent intervals or patterns. In clinical terminology, an irregular pulse can indicate various underlying conditions and may warrant further investigation. This term effectively conveys to healthcare professionals that the rhythm varies, which is crucial information for assessing the patient's cardiovascular status. The other terms, while descriptive in their own right, refer to different qualities of the pulse. "Weak" implies a diminished strength of the pulse, which does not specifically describe the consistency or pattern of the rhythm. "Thready" refers to a weak and thin pulse that can be felt, often associated with conditions like shock or severe blood loss, but does not clearly indicate irregularity. "Normal" suggests the absence of abnormalities in the pulse rhythm, which contradicts the premise of documenting irregularity. Thus, using "irregular" is the most appropriate and precise term for documenting an inconsistent pulse rhythm.