Certified EkG technician (CET) Practice Exam

When should an EKG technician report a patient's symptoms during a stress test?

1. Whenever the patient feels tired

2. Immediately if unexpected dysrhythmias occur

3. Only at the end of the test

4. When the physician arrives

The correct answer is: Immediately if unexpected dysrhythmias occur

Timely reporting of a patient's symptoms during a stress test is crucial for the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. In particular, immediate reporting of unexpected dysrhythmias is vital because these can indicate underlying cardiac issues that require prompt medical attention. Dysrhythmias could signal a significant problem, such as ischemia or other complications, and noting them in real-time allows healthcare providers to respond quickly, ensuring the patient receives the necessary care. The other options imply delays or non-critical reporting of symptoms, which could compromise patient safety. For instance, waiting until the end of the test does not afford an opportunity for immediate intervention, and reporting symptoms only when the physician arrives might lead to missed critical moments in patient care. Additionally, while fatigue can be a normal experience during a stress test, it does not typically warrant the same level of immediate concern that dysrhythmias do. Therefore, the emphasis on immediate reporting of unexpected dysrhythmias is a standard practice to enhance patient monitoring and safety during such procedures.