Examination Practice Questions And

Illinois EKG Technician Certification Examination Practice Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• Which of the following is the primary purpose of an EKG?
• To measure blood sugar
• To measure respiratory rate
• To assess the electrical activity of the heart
• To evaluate kidney function

Rationale: An EKG records the electrical impulses that control heart

rhythm, helping detect arrhythmias, ischemia, and other cardiac conditions.

2. The standard placement of limb lead RA (right arm) is:

• Right wrist 1 / 4

• Right upper arm
• Right ankle
• Chest, fourth intercostal space

Rationale: Limb leads can be placed on the upper arms and lower

legs; RA is on the right upper arm to capture electrical signals accurately.

• What does the P wave on an EKG represent?
• Ventricular depolarization
• Atrial depolarization
• Ventricular repolarization
• Atrial repolarization

Rationale: The P wave corresponds to the electrical activity of the

atria as they contract.

4. The QRS complex represents:

• Atrial repolarization
• Ventricular depolarization
• Atrial depolarization
• Ventricular repolarization

Rationale: The QRS complex shows the rapid depolarization of the

ventricles, leading to ventricular contraction.

• Which lead is considered the "ground" lead in a 12-lead EKG?
• LA

B. RL 2 / 4

• LL
• V1

Rationale: The right leg (RL) electrode serves as a ground to reduce

electrical interference.

6. Normal adult heart rate on an EKG is:

• 40–60 bpm
• 60–100 bpm
• 100–120 bpm
• 120–140 bpm

Rationale: Normal sinus rhythm ranges from 60–100 beats per

minute in adults.

• Which of the following rhythms is considered life-threatening?
• Sinus bradycardia
• Atrial fibrillation
• Ventricular fibrillation
• Sinus tachycardia

Rationale: Ventricular fibrillation causes the heart to quiver

ineffectively, leading to cardiac arrest if untreated.

• What is the correct placement for lead V1?
• Fifth intercostal space, midclavicular line
• Fourth intercostal space, right sternal border
• Fourth intercostal space, left sternal border
• Fifth intercostal space, anterior axillary line 3 / 4

Rationale: V1 is placed at the fourth intercostal space on the right

sternal border to properly visualize septal activity.

9. The term "artifact" on an EKG refers to:

• A normal waveform
• Interference or distortion not related to cardiac activity
• Ventricular depolarization
• Atrial contraction

Rationale: Artifacts are distortions caused by patient movement,

poor electrode contact, or electrical interference.

• Which electrolyte imbalance can cause peaked T waves on an

EKG?

• Hypocalcemia
• Hyperkalemia
• Hypokalemia
• Hypernatremia

Rationale: Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can produce

tall, peaked T waves and may indicate life-threatening arrhythmias.

• Which of the following is a pre-procedure instruction for a

patient having an EKG?

• Eat a large meal
• Avoid applying lotion or oils to the chest
• Drink caffeine
• Engage in strenuous exercise
• / 4