Patient Care Technician (PCT) AAH Practice Exam

What does the T Wave represent in an electrocardiogram?

1. Ventricular contraction

2. Atrial depolarization

3. Atrial repolarization

4. Ventricular re-polarization

The correct answer is: Ventricular re-polarization

The T Wave in an electrocardiogram primarily represents ventricular repolarization. This phase occurs after the ventricles have contracted and is crucial for the heart's electrical cycle. During this period, the heart muscle cells in the ventricles are returning to their resting state after the contraction, preparing for the next cycle of depolarization. Understanding the phases of the cardiac cycle is important for interpreting an ECG accurately. The specific waveform of the T Wave indicates that the ventricles are in a phase of recovery, where they restore electric potential and get ready for the subsequent contraction. This process is essential for maintaining a healthy rhythm and ensuring effective blood circulation throughout the body. The other options describe different aspects of heart activity that do not correspond to the T Wave. Ventricular contraction is represented by the QRS complex, while atrial depolarization is indicated by the P Wave. Atrial repolarization occurs concurrently with the ventricular contraction and is typically not represented as a distinct wave on the standard ECG. Hence, the T Wave's association with ventricular repolarization makes the choice accurate.