Cardiac Arrhythmia Exam Flashcards

What should you do first if your patient has colder toes on the side where a catheter was inserted and no pedal pulse is found?

0.12 seconds is equal to how many small squares on an ECG?

Electrical conduction in the heart begins with which node?

What electrolyte is essential for electrical conduction in the heart?

What is a surgically implanted electronic device that helps regulate the heartbeat called?

What is an opening between the left and right atria called?

A ventricular rate is determined by what?

A 12 lead ECG indicates that you will attach twelve leads to the patient.

What is the normal ejection fraction of the heart approximately?

During auscultation, the first heart sound is from which valves closing?

Which medications can lower the heart rate?

When performing CPR, compressions should be at least ____________ the volume of the chest.

What is your first action when a patient complains of chest pain feeling like an elephant is sitting on their chest?

What effect do medications ending in INE generally have on the heart?

Cardiac Catheterization & Patient Assessment

Immediate action is necessary if there are signs of compromised blood flow, such as colder toes on the catheter insertion side or absence of a pedal pulse.
Contact the doctor immediately and prepare the patient for potential return to the catheterization lab if complications arise.

Cardiac Electrical Conduction

Electrical conduction begins at the SA node, which is critical for initiating heartbeats.
Calcium (Ca²⁺) plays an essential role in the heart's electrical activity.

Heart Anatomy & Function

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a common fetal structure that may remain open after birth, affecting 1 in 3 or 4 individuals.
A normal ejection fraction is between 55-70%, indicating good heart function.

ECG Basics

A ventricular rate is determined by measuring the R to R intervals on the ECG.
Misconception that 12 lead ECG requires attaching twelve leads; actual practice may differ.

Heart Sounds & Pharmacology

The first heart sound during auscultation corresponds to the closure of the atrioventricular valves, signaling the beginning of ventricular contraction.
Medications such as digoxin and labetalol can lower heart rate, influencing cardiac output.

CPR Guidelines

During CPR, ensure compressions are at least 1/3 of the chest volume to be effective in maintaining circulation.

Emergency Response

In cases of severe chest pain, especially with descriptions like "an elephant sitting on the chest," an immediate call for the code team and crash cart is essential to provide prompt care.

Medication Effects

Medications ending in "INE," such as certain beta-blockers, typically decrease heart rate, impacting cardiac workload.

Test your knowledge with these flashcards focused on cardiac arrhythmia scenarios relevant to the National Telemetry Association exam. Each card presents a clinical situation that requires critical thinking and decision-making skills. Prepare effectively for your certification with these targeted questions.