Question 1

Which EKG wave corresponds to ventricular depolarization?

Accepted Answer

QRS complex

Question 2

A patient’s EKG shows a prominent U wave. Which condition should be considered first?

Accepted Answer

Hypokalemia

Question 3

If the heart rate is irregular, what is the recommended method for calculating the heart rate from an EKG?

Accepted Answer

Count the number of cardiac cycles in 6 seconds and multiply by 10

Question 4

Which formula would you use to calculate the heart rate if there are 4 large boxes between two successive QRS complexes?

Accepted Answer

Heart rate $$= \frac{300}{4}$$

Question 5

Which of the following is TRUE regarding the QRS complex in lead V1 in a normal adult?

Accepted Answer

It has a small R wave and a large S wave

Question 6

A patient’s EKG shows a uniformly prolonged PR interval. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

First degree AV block

Question 7

Which of the following is the correct normal range for the mean QRS axis?

Accepted Answer

$$-30^\circ to$$ $$+110^\circ$$

Question 8

Which heart sound is associated with the closure of the AV valves?

Accepted Answer

S1

Question 9

A tall P wave on an EKG may indicate which of the following?

Accepted Answer

Right atrial enlargement

Question 10

Which of the following statements about EKG paper is correct?

Accepted Answer

Each 1 mm box horizontally represents 0.04 seconds

Question 11

Which of the following conditions is most likely if the QRS voltage is low in all six limb leads (≤5 mm)?

Accepted Answer

Obesity

Question 12

A patient presents with a systolic murmur that is harsh and has a crescendo-decrescendo pattern. Which lesion is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Aortic stenosis

Question 13

Which of the following is TRUE about the QT interval?

Accepted Answer

A shortened QT interval is seen in hypercalcemia

Question 14

Which lead displays the potential between the right arm and left leg, with the left leg being positive?

Accepted Answer

Lead II

Question 15

During auscultation, which area is best for listening to the mitral valve?

Accepted Answer

Left fifth or sixth intercostal space, midclavicular

Question 16

A patient has a mean QRS vector of $$+120^\circ. $$How would you classify this axis deviation?

Accepted Answer

Right-axis deviation

Question 17

Which of the following is a feature of holosystolic murmurs?

Accepted Answer

Uniform intensity throughout systole

Question 18

Which heart sound is most sensitive and specific for impaired ventricular function and chronic aortic or mitral insufficiency?

Accepted Answer

S3

Question 19

A patient’s EKG shows abnormal Q waves in leads II, III, and aVf. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Accepted Answer

Inferior wall myocardial infarction

Question 20

If a patient’s jugular venous pulsation (JVP) is measured at 10 cm with the head elevated at 30°, what does this finding suggest?

Accepted Answer

Increased right-sided pressure

Electrocardiography (EKG) and Cardiovascular Examination: Study Notes

Study Guide - Practice Questions