Certified Cardiographic Technician (CCT) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CCT Practice Questions and Study Guide

ST elevation on an ECG reading is a key indicator of serious cardiac conditions, particularly myocardial infarction, often referred to as a heart attack. During a myocardial infarction, there is a blockage in a coronary artery, which deprives a portion of the heart muscle of adequate blood supply. This lack of oxygen results in pathological changes in the heart tissue, ultimately leading to the elevation of the ST segment on the ECG.

When the heart muscle is damaged due to inadequate blood flow, it translates into changed electrical activity that can be measured as ST segment elevation. This is a critical finding that prompts immediate medical intervention, as it indicates a significant risk of further heart damage or complications.

In contrast, while myocardial ischemia — the reduced blood flow to the heart — can sometimes lead to changes in the ECG, it is generally associated with ST depression or T-wave inversions rather than ST elevation unless it has progressed to infarction. Other conditions like hypokalemia or hypocalcemia can affect the heart's electrical activity but are not typically associated with ST elevation specifically.