Understanding EKG Fundamentals

Which of the following correctly describes the P wave in a normal EKG?

• It represents ventricular depolarization.

• It represents atrial depolarization.

• It represents ventricular repolarization.

• It represents atrial repolarization.

What is the correct placement for the V1 lead in a standard 12-lead EKG?

• Fourth intercostal space, left sternal border

• Fourth intercostal space, right sternal border

• Fifth intercostal space, midclavicular line

• Fifth intercostal space, anterior axillary line

Which of the following is a normal range for the PR interval on an EKG?

• 0.08 to 0.12 seconds

• 0.12 to 0.20 seconds

• 0.20 to 0.28 seconds

• 0.28 to 0.36 seconds

Identify the common artifact that appears as a series of regular, rapid spikes on an EKG tracing.

• Muscle tremor

• Wandering baseline

• AC interference

• Loose electrode

Which EKG waveform component is primarily affected by hyperkalemia?

• P wave

• QRS complex

• T wave

• U wave

What is the correct placement for the V6 lead in a standard 12-lead EKG?

• Fifth intercostal space, midclavicular line

• Fifth intercostal space, midaxillary line

• Fourth intercostal space, left sternal border

• Fourth intercostal space, right sternal border

Which of the following is a normal range for the QRS duration on an EKG?

• 0.04 to 0.10 seconds

• 0.10 to 0.16 seconds

• 0.16 to 0.22 seconds

• 0.22 to 0.28 seconds

What type of artifact is most likely to occur if the patient is shivering during an EKG recording?

• AC interference

• Muscle tremor

• Wandering baseline

• Loose electrode

Which EKG component represents the time from the start of atrial depolarization to the start of ventricular depolarization?

• PR interval

• QT interval

• ST segment

• QRS complex

What is the correct placement for the V4 lead in a standard 12-lead EKG?

• Fourth intercostal space, right sternal border

• Fifth intercostal space, midclavicular line

• Fifth intercostal space, anterior axillary line

• Fourth intercostal space, left sternal border