Certified Rhythm Analysis Technician (CRAT) Practice Exam 2026 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

In a situation where a patient wearing a telemetry monitor becomes unresponsive, the immediate priority is to ensure the safety of the patient and initiate emergency medical assistance. Activating Emergency Medical Services (EMS) is the most appropriate next step because unresponsiveness can indicate a serious medical issue that requires immediate attention.

When a patient is unresponsive, time is critical. By calling EMS, you ensure that professional medical help is on its way to assess and treat the patient appropriately. This action also provides reassurance to the family, in this case the wife, who may be distressed by the situation. It focuses on safeguarding the patient’s health rather than taking less immediate actions that don't address the urgency of the scenario or potentially delay critical care.

In contrast, inquiring about medications or checking if the monitor is connected may not provide immediate assistance to the unresponsive patient. Additionally, directing a family member to physically shake the patient is not a recommended action as it might not provide useful information about the patient’s condition and could lead to further complications if the patient is experiencing a medical emergency.