12-Lead EKG
A 12-Lead EKG (also known as 12-Lead ECG) is a common medical test that records the heart's electrical activity from twelve different angles. It's like taking a picture of the heart's electrical pattern from multiple viewpoints. This test helps healthcare providers spot heart problems and is a fundamental skill in nursing and cardiac care. Nurses who can perform and understand this test are valuable team members in hospitals, clinics, and emergency rooms. The "12-Lead" part means the test uses 12 different electrode positions on the patient's body to get a complete view of heart activity.
Examples in Resumes
Performed over 1,000 12-Lead EKG tests in emergency department setting
Trained new nurses in proper 12-Lead ECG placement and interpretation
Certified in EKG administration and basic interpretation
Conducted daily 12-Lead EKG screenings in cardiac care unit
Typical job title: "EKG Technicians"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find EKG Technicians
Professional Organizations
Job Boards
Online Communities
Example Interview Questions
Senior Level Questions
Q: How would you train new staff members in proper 12-Lead EKG placement and interpretation?
Expected Answer: A senior nurse should explain their teaching methodology, including hands-on demonstration, common placement errors to watch for, basic interpretation guidelines, and how they ensure competency through supervised practice and feedback.
Q: Describe a time when you identified a critical EKG finding that required immediate intervention.
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate clinical decision-making skills, ability to recognize emergency situations, and proper escalation protocols when abnormal readings are detected.
Mid Level Questions
Q: What steps do you take to ensure accurate 12-Lead EKG readings?
Expected Answer: Should discuss proper electrode placement, patient positioning, skin preparation, checking for interference, and common troubleshooting techniques.
Q: How do you explain EKG procedures to anxious patients?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate patient communication skills, ability to provide clear explanations in simple terms, and techniques for helping patients feel comfortable during the procedure.
Junior Level Questions
Q: What are the basic steps in performing a 12-Lead EKG?
Expected Answer: Should be able to list the basic procedure steps including patient preparation, proper lead placement locations, and machine operation.
Q: What documentation is required when performing an EKG?
Expected Answer: Should know basic documentation requirements including patient information, time/date, any symptoms, and proper labeling of EKG strips.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic EKG lead placement
- Equipment operation
- Patient preparation
- Basic documentation
Mid (2-5 years)
- Recognition of common rhythms
- Troubleshooting equipment issues
- Patient education
- Basic rhythm interpretation
Senior (5+ years)
- Advanced rhythm interpretation
- Staff training and supervision
- Emergency situation management
- Quality control processes
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to demonstrate proper electrode placement
- Lack of basic understanding of cardiac rhythms
- Poor documentation practices
- No experience with modern EKG equipment
- Unfamiliarity with emergency protocols
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