Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT) Practice Exam

Describe the difference between a routine ECG and continuous cardiac monitoring?

1. Cardiac monitoring uses 3 leads with different placements.

2. Cardiac monitoring uses 4 leads, utilizing the limbs.

3. Cardiac monitoring uses the 6 chest leads.

4. Cardiac monitoring is the same as a routine ECG.

The correct answer is: Cardiac monitoring uses 3 leads with different placements.

The distinction between a routine ECG and continuous cardiac monitoring lies mainly in how the heart's electrical activity is captured and the duration of monitoring. A routine ECG typically involves placing several leads on the patient's body to get a snapshot of the heart's electrical activity at a single point in time, often using 12 leads to provide a more comprehensive view. Continuous cardiac monitoring, on the other hand, is used to provide an ongoing assessment of the heart's rhythm and rate over an extended period. In many cases, this type of monitoring utilizes fewer leads than a full 12-lead ECG, often employing 3 leads that are strategically arranged to monitor the heart continuously. The first option is correct because continuous cardiac monitoring can indeed involve fewer leads (like 3 leads) compared to the 12 leads typically used in standard ECGs. The arrangement of these leads allows for real-time data collection and alerts for any arrhythmias or significant changes in the patient's cardiac status as they occur. In contrast, the other options either inaccurately describe the lead placements used in continuous monitoring or incorrectly suggest that continuous monitoring is equivalent to a routine ECG, which fundamentally underestimates the purpose and functionality of each method.