When preparing a patient for a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), the medical assistant notices the patient is wearing a transdermal nitroglycerin patch on the left chest. What is the correct action?

When preparing a patient for a 12-lead

Multiple choice — select the best answer

ARemove the patch, cleanse the skin, and place the electrode on clean skin, then notify the provider
BSkip V4 and place all remaining electrodes in their standard positions
CMove only the affected electrode two centimeters lateral to avoid the patch without informing the provider
DPlace the chest electrode directly over the patch because it is thin enough not to affect the tracing

✓ Correct answer: A. Remove the patch, cleanse the skin, and place the electrode on clean skin, then notify the provider Transdermal patches must be removed before electrode placement because they interfere with electrical conduction and adhesion; the provider must be notified because removing a medicated patch requires clinical awareness.

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Topic: Medical Assistant (CCMA/RMA)

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When preparing a patient for a 12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG), the medical assistant notices the patient is wearing a transdermal nitroglycerin patch on the left chest. What is the correct action?

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