Where should the V1 electrode be positioned during a 12-lead EKG/ECG?

Clinical Medical Assistant Exam

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Question 1 of 5.

A. In the fifth intercostal space at the left sternal border

B. In the fourth intercostal space at the left sternal border

C. In the fourth intercostal space at the right sternal border

D. In the fifth intercostal space at the right sternal border

Explanation: Precise electrode placement is critical for an accurate 12-lead ECG. The V1 electrode is placed in the fourth intercostal space just to the right of the sternum (right sternal border). V2 is placed in the fourth intercostal space just to the left of the sternum. V4-V6 are placed in the fifth intercostal space. Misplacement can lead to misinterpretation of cardiac rhythms and conditions.

Question 2 of 5.

Holter monitor is used in diagnostic testing to primarily:

A. Monitor blood pressure levels throughout the day

B. Detect irregularities in the digestive system

C. Record the heart's activity over a period of 24 to 48 hours

D. Measure the oxygen level in the blood

Explanation: A Holter monitor is a portable electrocardiogram (ECG) device that continuously records the heart's rhythms over a 24 to 48-hour period while the patient goes about their daily activities. This is crucial for detecting arrhythmias or other cardiac events that may not occur during a standard, short-duration ECG. Monitoring blood pressure is typically done with an ambulatory blood pressure monitor, not a Holter monitor. Detecting digestive irregularities is not related to cardiac monitoring. Measuring oxygen levels is performed by a pulse oximeter.

Question 3 of 5.

What is the correct procedure for a medical assistant to sanitize an examination room prior to patient care?

A. By disposing of all paper products

B. By spraying air freshener

C. By using hospital-grade disinfectant on all surfaces

D. By using a vacuum cleaner

Explanation: Infection control protocols in healthcare settings mandate the use of hospital-grade disinfectants on all high-touch and clinical surfaces to eliminate pathogens and prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs). Disposing of paper products and using a vacuum cleaner are part of general cleaning but do not achieve disinfection. Spraying air freshener only masks odors and does not kill germs.

Question 4 of 5.

Where is the preferred site for capillary blood sampling?

A. The fingertip

B. The elbow

C. The wrist

D. The thumb

Explanation: The fingertip, specifically the sides of the distal end of the finger, is the preferred site for capillary blood sampling in adults and children. This area has a rich capillary network, providing an adequate blood flow for tests like glucose monitoring. The thumb has a pulse and is more sensitive. The elbow is the site for venipuncture, not capillary sampling. The wrist is not a standard site for blood collection due to thinner skin and less capillary density.

Question 5 of 5.

A patient is prescribed 2 grams of an intravenous antibiotic. If the medication is provided in 1 gram vials, how many vials should the medical assistant prepare?

A. 4 vials

B. 2 vials

C. 0.5 vials

D. 1 vial

Explanation: This is a straightforward calculation. The prescribed dose is 2 grams. Each vial contains 1 gram. Therefore, to obtain 2 grams, the medical assistant must prepare 2 vials (1 gram/vial * 2 vials = 2 grams). 4 vials would be 4 grams, which is an overdose. 0.5 vials would be 0.5 grams, which is an underdose. 1 vial would only provide 1 gram.