Advanced Patient Assessment Practice Exam

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Study for the Advanced Patient Assessment Exam. Use flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each enriched with hints and detailed explanations. Equip yourself for success with this comprehensive prep!

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Which cardiac event occurs during the T wave?

Atrial depolarization
Ventricular depolarization
Ventricular repolarization
Atrial repolarization

The correct answer is: Ventricular repolarization

The T wave on an electrocardiogram (ECG) represents the phase of ventricular repolarization. This is when the muscle cells in the ventricles recover from the contraction that occurred during ventricular depolarization, which is shown in the QT interval and is reflected in the preceding QRS complex. During repolarization, the electrical activity in the ventricles resets in preparation for the next heartbeat, allowing the heart muscle to become electrically neutral again. This phase is crucial because it ensures that the ventricles are ready for the next cycle of depolarization and contraction, which is vital for maintaining an effective and coordinated heart rhythm. Understanding the role of the T wave is fundamental in interpreting an ECG, as abnormalities in this phase can indicate issues such as electrolyte imbalances, ischemia, or other cardiac conditions.