CCT (ASQ) study plan

Label the chambers, valves, and great vessels on a blank heart diagram from memory

Trace the complete blood flow path through the heart and both circuits without notes

Describe the cardiac conduction pathway in sequence and state the conduction velocity at each step

Explain the phases of the cardiac cycle and correlate each phase with valve states

Relate each ECG waveform and interval to the underlying electrical and mechanical event

Calculate heart rate from an ECG strip using both the 1500-method and the 6-second method

Define normal ranges for PR, QRS, and QT intervals and identify values outside them

Explain the Frank-Starling relationship and how preload, afterload, and contractility affect output

Differentiate sinus rhythms, atrial arrhythmias, and junctional rhythms by ECG criteria

Distinguish first-, second-, and third-degree AV block using PR and P-QRS relationships

Identify ventricular arrhythmias and describe which are immediately life-threatening

Apply a systematic 5-step rhythm interpretation method to unfamiliar strips

Interpret ST-segment and T-wave changes and state their clinical significance

Describe indications, patient prep, and expected findings for Holter monitoring and event recorders

Explain the purpose and limitations of exercise stress testing

Compare cardiac biomarkers and state the timing of their rise and fall

Describe the steps, risks, and post-procedure care for cardiac catheterization

Explain how echocardiography and nuclear imaging are used to assess structure and function

Outline patient education points before and after common cardiac diagnostic tests

Match common cardiac medications to their indications and monitoring parameters

Demonstrate correct 12-lead electrode placement and identify common misplacement artifacts

Apply standard precautions and infection-control steps during ECG acquisition

List safety considerations for patients with pacemakers, ICDs, or implanted devices during testing

Describe emergency response steps for a patient who becomes symptomatic during a cardiac test

Identify sources of ECG artifact and describe corrective actions for each

Explain routine quality-control checks for ECG equipment and supplies

Describe proper maintenance, cleaning, and calibration practices for cardiac testing equipment

Document and troubleshoot a simulated equipment fault using a stepwise approach

Review weak areas flagged by earlier practice scores and re-study each

Complete a full-length timed practice exam under test conditions

Analyze every missed item and categorize the error by domain

Recite key formulas, normal values, and safety rules from memory