pharm exam 1 PQs
Which substance would a client taking acetaminophen routinely be advised to avoid? Alcohol Caffeine Diphenhydramine Ibuprofen
Alcohol
Which medication is safe to take for pain in the week before a surgical procedure? Naproxen Aspirin Ketorolac Acetaminophen
Acetaminophen
Which medication is indicated to prevent progression of a myocardial infarction for a client admitted to the emergency department with crushing chest pain? Aspirin Atropine Gabapentin Epinephrine
Aspirin
Which intravenous medication would the nurse anticipate the health care provider will prescribe for a client who has a tonic-clonic seizure? Naloxone Diazepam Epinephrine HCI Atropine
Diazepam
Which medications would the nurse identify as commonly used as an adjunct during conscious sedation for minor surgeries? Diazepam Midazolam Lorazepam Clonazepam
Midazolam
Which medication would the nurse identify as a risk factor for straining due to constipation in a client with a myocardial infarction receiving digoxin, fluoxetine, morphine, and docusate sodium? Digoxin Morphine Docusate Fluoxetine
Morphine
. A nurse is preparing a pediatric patient for surgery and is teaching the patient and the child's parents about the use of the patient-controlled analgesia pump. The parents voice concern about their child receiving an overdose of morphine. What will the nurse do? a. Instruct the parents not to activate the device when their child is sleeping. b. Reassure the parents that drug overdose is not possible with PCA. c. Suggest that the child use the PCA sparingly. d. Tell the patient that the pump can be programmed for PRN dosing only.
a
A 5-year-old child with seasonal allergies has been taking 2.5 mL of cetirizine [Zyrtec] syrup once daily. The parents tell the nurse that the child does not like the syrup, and they do not think that the drug is effective. The nurse will suggest they discuss which drug with their child's healthcare provider? a. Cetirizine [Zyrtec] 5-mg chewable tablet once daily b. Loratadine [Claritin] 10-mg chewable tablet once daily c. Fexofenadine [Allegra] syrup 5 mL twice daily d. Desloratadine [Clarinex] 5-mg rapid-disintegrating tablet once daily
a
A 7-year-old child with asthma uses a daily inhaled glucocorticoid and an albuterol MDI as needed. The provider has added montelukast [Singulair] to the child's regimen. Which statement by the child's parent indicates understanding of this medication? a. "I may notice mood changes in my child." b. "I should give this medication twice daily." c. "I will give my child one 4-mg chewable tablet daily." d. "This drug can alleviate symptoms during an acute attack."
a
A nurse consults a drug manual before giving a medication to an 80-year-old patient. The manual states that older adult patients are at increased risk for hepatic side effects. Which action by the nurse is correct? a. Contact the provider to discuss an order for pretreatment laboratory work. b. Ensure that the drug is given in the correct dose at the correct time to minimize the risk of adverse effects. c. Notify the provider that this drug is contraindicated for this patient. d. Request an order to give the medication intravenously so that the drug does not pass through the liver.
a
A nurse is caring for a patient receiving intrathecal baclofen [Lioresal]. The patient is unresponsive. After asking a coworker to contact the provider, the nurse anticipates performing which intervention? a. Preparing to support respirations b. Administering an antidote to baclofen c. Administering diazepam to prevent seizures d. Obtaining an electrocardiogram
a
A nurse is caring for a patient who has been taking low-dose aspirin for several days. The nurse notes that the patient has copious amounts of watery nasal secretions and an urticarial rash. The nurse will contact the provider to discuss: a. administering epinephrine. b. changing to a first-generation NSAID. c. reducing the dose of aspirin. d. giving an antihistamine.
a
A nurse is preparing to administer medications. Which patient would the nurse consider to have the greatest predisposition to an adverse reaction? a. A 30-year-old man with kidney disease b. A 75-year-old woman with cystitis c. A 50-year-old man with an upper respiratory tract infection d. A 9-year-old boy with an ear infection
a
A nurse is preparing to give an antibiotic to a patient who reports being allergic to antibiotics. Before giving the medication, what will the nurse do first? a. Ask whether the patient has taken this antibiotic for other infections. b. Question the patient about allergies to other medications. c. Request an order for a lower dose of the antibiotic. d. Request an order for an antihistamine.
a
A nurse is providing teaching for an adult patient with arthritis who has been instructed to take ibuprofen [Motrin] for discomfort. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching? a. "I may experience tinnitus with higher doses of this medication." b. "I may take up to 800 mg 4 times daily for pain." c. "I should limit alcohol intake to fewer than three drinks a day." d. "I will take this medication with meals to help prevent stomach upset."
a
A nurse is teaching a group of nursing students about antihistamines. Which statement by a student indicates an understanding of the mechanism of action of the antihistamines? a. "Antihistamines block H1 receptors to prevent actions of histamine at these sites." b. "Antihistamines block release of histamine from mast cells and basophils." c. "H1 antagonists can bind to H1 receptors, H2 receptors, and muscarinic receptors." d. "First-generation antihistamines are more selective than second-generation antihistamines."
a
A nurse is teaching a group of nursing students why glucocorticoids are preferred over nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs in the treatment of inflammation. Which statement by a student indicates a need for further teaching? a. "Glucocorticoids act by multiple mechanisms and have more anti-inflammatory effects than NSAIDs." b. "Glucocorticoids have fewer side effects than nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs." c. "Glucocorticoids help avert damage to tissues from lysosomal enzymes." d. "Glucocorticoids reduce the immune component of inflammation."
a
A nurse is teaching a patient about a medication that alters sympathetic nervous system functions. To evaluate understanding, the nurse asks the patient to describe which functions the sympathetic nervous system regulates. Which answer indicates the need for further teaching? a. "The digestive functions of the body" b. "The cardiovascular system" c. "The 'fight-or-flight' response" d. "Body temperature"
a
A nurse is teaching a patient who has taken glucocorticoids for over a year about glucocorticoid withdrawal. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching? a. "I should reduce the dose by half each day until I stop taking the drug." b. "I will need to have cortisol levels monitored during the withdrawal process." c. "The withdrawal schedule may take several months." d. "If I have surgery, I may need to take the drug for a while, even after I have stopped."
a
A patient asks the nurse what can be given to alleviate severe, chronic pain of several months' duration. The patient has been taking oxycodone [OxyContin] and states that it is no longer effective. The nurse will suggest discussing which medication with the provider? a. Fentanyl [Duragesic] transdermal patch b. Hydrocodone [Vicodin] PO c. Meperidine [Demerol] PO d. Pentazocine [Talwin] PO
a
A patient has been receiving intravenous ketorolac 30 mg every 6 hours for postoperative pain for 4 days. The patient will begin taking oral ketorolac 10 mg every 4 to 6 hours to prepare for discharge in 1 or 2 days. The patient asks the nurse whether this drug will be prescribed for management of pain after discharge. The nurse will respond by telling the patient that the provider will prescribe a(n): a. different nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug for home management of pain. b. fixed-dose opioid analgesic/nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication. c. lower dose of the oral ketorolac for long-term pain management. d. intranasal preparation of ketorolac for pain management at home.
a
A patient has just received a prescription for fluticasone/salmeterol [Advair Diskus]. What will the nurse include as part of the teaching for this patient about the use of this device? a. "You do not need good hand-lung coordination to use this device." b. "You will begin to inhale before activating the device." c. "You will need to use a spacer to help control the medication." d. "You will take 2 inhalations twice daily."
a
A patient is given a new medication and reports nausea within an hour after taking the drug. The nurse consults the drug information manual and learns that nausea is not an expected adverse effect of this drug. When the next dose is due, what will the nurse do? a. Administer the drug and tell the patient to report further nausea. b. Hold the drug and notify the provider of the patient's symptoms. c. Report the symptoms of nausea to the MEDWATCH program. d. Request an order for an antiemetic to counter this drug's effects.
a
A patient is given a prescription for azithromycin [Zithromax] and asks the nurse why the dose on the first day is twice the amount of the dose on the next 4 days. Which reply by the nurse is correct? a. "A large initial dose helps to get the drug to optimal levels in the body faster." b. "The first dose is larger to minimize the first-pass effect of the liver." c. "The four smaller doses help the body taper the amount of drug more gradually." d. "Tubular reabsorption is faster with initial doses, so more is needed at first."
a
A patient is receiving digoxin twice daily. When assessing the patient before giving a dose, the nurse counts a pulse of 60 beats/min and learns that the patient is experiencing nausea. The nurse consults a drug manual and verifies that the ordered dose is correct. What should the nurse do? a. Contact the prescriber to report the symptoms. b. Delay the dose so the drug can clear from receptor sites. c. Give the medication as ordered, because the dose is correct. d. Request an antinausea medication from the prescriber
a
A patient is taking sertraline [Zoloft] for depression, and the provider orders azithromycin [Zithromax] to treat an infection. What will the nurse do? a. Contact the provider to discuss an alternative to azithromycin. b. Request an order for a different antidepressant medication. c. Request an order to reduce the dose of sertraline. d. Withhold the sertraline while giving the azithromycin.
a
A patient newly diagnosed with diabetes is to be discharged from the hospital. The nurse teaching this patient about home management should begin by doing what? a. Asking the patient to demonstrate how to measure and administer insulin b. Discussing methods of storing insulin and discarding syringes c. Giving information about how diet and exercise affect insulin requirements d. Teaching the patient about the long-term consequences of poor diabetes control
a
A patient taking a glucocorticoid for arthritis reports feeling bloated. The nurse notes edema of the patient's hands and feet. Which action by the nurse is correct? a. Ask the patient about sodium intake. b. Obtain a blood glucose level. c. Suggest the patient limit potassium intake. d. Tell the patient to stop taking the drug
a
A patient taking high doses of a glucocorticoid develops weakness in the muscles of the upper arms and in the legs. What will the nurse do? a. Contact the provider to ask about reducing the dose. b. Encourage the patient to restrict sodium intake. c. Reassure the patient that this is an expected side effect. d. Tell the patient to stop taking the drug
a
A patient tells a nurse that a medication prescribed for recurrent migraine headaches is not working. What will the nurse do? a. Ask the patient about the number and frequency of tablets taken. b. Assess the patient's headache pain on a scale from 1 to 10. c. Report the patient's complaint to the prescriber. d. Suggest biofeedback as an adjunct to drug therapy.
a
A patient who has a viral upper respiratory infection reports having a runny nose and a cough that prevents sleep and asks the nurse to recommend an over-the-counter medication. Which medication will the nurse recommend? a. Diphenhydramine [Benadryl] b. Fexofenadine/pseudoephedrine [Allegra-D] c. Guaifenesin [Mucinex] d. Phenylephrine drops
a
A patient who has arthritis has been taking ibuprofen [Motrin] and a glucocorticoid medication. The patient reports having tarry stools but denies gastric pain. Which action by the nurse is correct? a. Contact the provider to discuss ordering an antiulcer medication. b. Counsel the patient to use over-the-counter antacids. c. Reassure the patient not to worry unless there is gastric pain. d. Tell the patient to stop taking the glucocorticoid immediately.
a
A patient who uses an inhaled glucocorticoid for chronic asthma calls the nurse to report hoarseness. What will the nurse do? a. Ask whether the patient is rinsing the mouth after each dose. b. Request an order for an antifungal medication. c. Suggest that the patient be tested for a bronchial infection. d. Tell the patient to discontinue use of the glucocorticoid.
a
A patient will receive buprenorphine [Butrans] as a transdermal patch for pain. What is important to teach this patient about the use of this drug? a. Avoid prolonged exposure to the sun. b. Cleanse the site with soap or alcohol. c. Remove the patch daily at bedtime. d. Remove hair by shaving before applying the patch.
a
A patient with allergic rhinitis is taking a compound product of loratadine/pseudoephedrine [Claritin-D] every 12 hours. The patient complains of insomnia. The nurse notes that the patient is restless and anxious. The patient's heart rate is 90 beats per minute, and the blood pressure is 130/85 mm Hg. The nurse will contact the provider to: a. discuss using an intranasal glucocorticoid and loratadine [Claritin]. b. report acute toxicity caused by pseudoephedrine. c. suggest using an agent with a sympathomimetic drug only. d. suggest using a topical decongestant to minimize systemic symptoms.
a
A patient with cerebral palsy has severe muscle spasticity and muscle weakness. The patient is unable to take anything by mouth. The nurse is correct to anticipate that which medication will be ordered for home therapy? a. Baclofen [Lioresal] b. Dantrolene [Dantrium] c. Diazepam [Valium] d. Metaxalone [Skelaxin]
a
A patient with multiple sclerosis needs pharmacologic treatment for spasticity to begin strengthening exercises to improve walking ability. The nurse anticipates that which medication will be ordered for spasticity? a. Baclofen [Lioresal] b. Dantrolene [Dantrium] c. Diazepam [Valium] d. Metaxalone [Skelaxin]
a
A patient with stable COPD is prescribed a bronchodilator medication. Which type of bronchodilator is preferred for this patient? a. A long-acting inhaled beta2 agonist b. An oral beta2 agonist c. A short-acting beta2 agonist d. An intravenous methylxanthine
a
A pregnant patient asks the nurse if she can take antihistamines for seasonal allergies during her pregnancy. What will the nurse tell the patient? a. Antihistamines should be avoided unless absolutely necessary. b. Second-generation antihistamines are safer than first-generation antihistamines. c. Antihistamines should not be taken during pregnancy but may be taken when breast-feeding. d. The margin of safety for antihistamines is clearly understood for pregnant patients.
a
A woman who has arthritis is breast-feeding her infant and asks the nurse if it is safe to take NSAIDs while nursing. What will the nurse tell this patient? a. NSAIDs are safe to take while breast-feeding. b. NSAIDs are not safe, even in small amounts. c. She should take only COX-2 inhibitors while breast-feeding. d. She should request a prescription for narcotic analgesics.
a
An adolescent is brought to the emergency department by a parent who reports that the patient took a whole bottle of extended-release acetaminophen tablets somewhere between 8 and 10 hours ago. The nurse will anticipate administering which of the following? a. Acetylcysteine [Mucomyst] b. Activated charcoal c. Hemodialysis d. Respiratory support
a
An older adult patient who has cancer and Alzheimer's disease is crying but shakes his or her head "no" when asked about pain. The prescriber has ordered morphine sulfate 2 to 4 mg IV every 2 hours PRN pain. It has been 4 hours since a dose has been given. What will the nurse do? a. Administer 4 mg of morphine and monitor this patient's verbal and nonverbal responses. b. Give 2 mg of morphine for pain to avoid increasing this patient's level of confusion. c. Request an order for a nonopioid analgesic or an antidepressant adjuvant analgesic. d. Withhold any analgesic at this time and reassess the patient in 30 to 60 minutes.
a
During assessment of the patient, which finding would concern the nurse that the patient taking Atropine may be experiencing toxicity? a. Delirium b. Fatigue c. Tachypnea d. Fever
a
The nurse administers acetaminophen to a child who complains of pain after abdominal surgery. The parent asks the nurse why her child isn't being given ibuprofen. Which response by the nurse is most appropriate? a. "It could prolong bleeding time." b. "It's contraindicated for young children." c. "It can suppress the healing of the incision." d. "It becomes ineffective when given for long periods."
a
The nurse administers albuterol to a 4-year-old child. Which intervention would assist the nurse in evaluating the effectiveness of this medication? a. Auscultate breath sounds. b. Collect a sputum sample. c. Conduct a neurological examination. d. Palpate chest excursion.
a
The nurse receives an order to give morphine 5 mg IV every 2 hours PRN pain. Which action is not part of the six rights of drug administration? a. Assessing the patient's pain level 15 to 30 minutes after giving the medication b. Checking the medication administration record to see when the last dose was administered c. Consulting a drug manual to determine whether the amount the prescriber ordered is appropriate d. Documenting the reason the medication was given in the patient's electronic medical record
a
Which medication taken by an older client who has been treated for rhinitis and pharyngitis may be causing the client's new onset confusion, dry mouth, and constipation? a. Chlorpheniramine b. Acetaminophen c. Ibuprofen d. Guaifenesin
a
Which drugs are used to treat spasticity? (Select all that apply.) a. Baclofen [Lioresal] b. Dantrolene [Dantrium] c. Diazepam [Valium] d. Metaxalone [Skelaxin] e. Tizanidine [Flexeril]
a b c
Which instruction regarding the use of fluticasone nasal spray is appropriate for client teaching? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. a. Use the medication on a regular basis, not PRN. b. Clear the nasal passages before using the medication. c. Discontinue use of the medication if nasal infection develops. d. Remember that driving may be dangerous because of the medication's sedative effect. e. Begin taking the medication 2 weeks before pollen season starts, and use it throughout the season.
a b c
Which manifestation is an adverse effect of intravenous lorazepam? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. a. Amnesia b. Drowsiness c. Sleep driving d. Blurred vision e. Respiratory depression
a b c d e
A nurse is administering morphine sulfate to a postoperative patient. Which are appropriate routine nursing actions when giving this drug? (Select all that apply.) a. Counting respirations before and after giving the medication b. Encouraging physical activity and offering increased fluids c. Monitoring the patient's blood pressure closely for hypertension d. Palpating the patient's lower abdomen every 4 to 6 hours e. Requesting an order for methylnaltrexone [Relistor] to prevent constipation
a b d
A patient is brought to the emergency department after ingesting a handful of diphenhydramine [Benadryl] tablets. The patient has dilated pupils, a flushed face, and tremors. The patient is agitated and has a heart rate of 110 beats/min. The nurse may anticipate administering which agents? (Select all that apply.) a. Activated charcoal b. Atropine c. Cathartics d. Lorazepam e. Second-generation H1 antagonists
a b d
What are the results of using glucocorticoid drugs to treat asthma? (Select all that apply.) a. Reduced bronchial hyperreactivity b. Reduced edema of the airway c. Reduced number of bronchial beta2 receptors d. Increased responsiveness to beta2-adrenergic agonists e. Increased synthesis of inflammatory mediators
a b d
Which action is the nurse's responsibility when administering prescribed opioid analgesics? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. a. Count the client's respirations. b. I Document the intensity of the client's pain. c. Withhold the medication if the client reports pruritus. d. Verify the number of doses in the locked cabinet before administering the prescribed dose. e. Discard the medication in the client's toilet before leaving the room if the medication is refused.
a b d
Which drugs are used to treat COPD? (Select all that apply.) a. Anticholinergic medications b. Glucocorticoids c. Leukotriene modifiers d. Long-acting beta2 agonists e. Monoclonal antibodies
a b d
Which drugs will not be affected by interpatient variability? (Select all that apply.) a. Antiseptics applied to the skin to slow bacterial growth b. Antacids to help with the discomfort of heartburn c. Broad-spectrum antibiotics that are effective against many organisms d. Chelating agents that remove metal compounds from the body e. Topical analgesics used to treat localized pain
a b d
Which medication increases the risk for upper gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. a. Aspirin b. Ibuprofen c. Ciprofloxacin d. Acetaminophen e. Methylprednisolone
a b e
Which medication increases the risk for upper gastrointestinal (Gl) bleeding? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. a. Aspirin b. Ibuprofen c. Ciprofloxacin d. Acetaminophen e. Methylprednisolone
a b e
Which adverse effect will the nurse instruct the client to anticipate when prescribed albuterol to relieve severe asthma? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. a. Tremors b. Lethargy c. Palpitations d. Bronchoconstriction e. Decreased pulse rate
a c
A thin older adult woman is admitted to the hospital after several days of vomiting, diarrhea, and poor intake of foods and fluids. She has not voided since admission. In preparing to care for this patient, the nurse will look for what laboratory values to help guide medication administration? (Select all that apply.) a. Creatinine clearance b. Gastric pH c. Plasma drug levels d. Serum albumin e. Serum creatinine
a c d
Which patients are at increased risk for adverse drug events? (Select all that apply.) a. A 2-month-old infant taking a medication for gastroesophageal reflux disease b. A 23-year-old female taking an antibiotic for the first time c. A 40-year-old male who is intubated in the intensive care unit and taking antibiotics and cardiac medications d. A 7-year-old female receiving insulin for diabetes e. An 80-year-old male taking medications for COPD
a c e
Which action would the nurse take before administering each dose in a client who takes oxycodone every 3 hours for pain after surgery? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. a. Count the client's respiratory rate. b. Examine the client for petechiae. c. Observe the client for movement disorders. d. Ask the client to rate the level of pain. e. Assess the client's level of consciousness.
a d e
Which disorders may be treated with glucocorticoids? (Select all that apply.) a. Allergic rhinitis b. Anaphylaxis c. Bronchiolitis d. Gout e. Ulcerative colitis
a d e
Which medication is indicated for management of clinical manifestations associated with an opioid overdose? a. Naloxone b. Methadone c. Epinephrine d. Amphetamine
a. Naloxone
A 60-year-old female patient is about to begin long-term therapy with a glucocorticoid. Which of the following will be important for minimizing the risk of osteoporosis? a. Baseline vitamin D level b. Calcium and vitamin D supplements c. Estrogen therapy d. Skeletal x-rays before treatment
b
A 7-year-old child has a cough, runny nose, congestion, and fever, and the parents ask the nurse to recommend an over-the-counter product. Which response by the nurse is correct? a. "Any product will be effective when combined with vitamin C and zinc." b. "It is best to use single-agent medications to treat individual symptoms." c. "The fever indicates that your child may need an antibiotic; you should call your provider." d. "You should ask your provider to prescribe a combination product that will treat multiple symptoms."
b
A child is to begin long-term glucocorticoid therapy. The parents ask the nurse about the effects of this drug on the child's growth. Which response by the nurse is correct? a. "A smaller dose may be indicated for your child." b. "Ask your provider about every other day dosing." c. "Long-acting glucocorticoid preparations should prevent growth suppression." d. "Oral glucocorticoids rarely cause growth suppression."
b
A child who has perennial allergic rhinitis has been using an intranasal glucocorticoid. The provider has ordered montelukast [Singulair] to replace the glucocorticoid, because the child has frequent nosebleeds. When teaching this child's parents about montelukast, the nurse will include which statement? a. "Montelukast is also effective for treating infectious rhinitis." b. "Montelukast may cause behavior changes in your child." c. "Montelukast will treat both congestion and rhinitis." d. "Montelukast works best when combined with a topical decongestant."
b
A patient who takes oral theophylline [Theochron] twice daily for chronic stable asthma develops an infection and will take ciprofloxacin. The nurse will contact the provider to discuss: a. changing to a different antibiotic. b. reducing the theophylline dose. c. giving theophylline once daily. d. switching from theophylline to a LABA.
b
A child with seasonal rhinitis has used budesonide [Rhinocort Aqua] for several years. The parents are concerned that the child's rate of growth has slowed. What will the nurse do? a. Reassure the parents that this is an expected side effect. b. Suggest that the parents discuss using fluticasone [Flonase] with the provider. c. Tell the parents to administer the drug only when symptoms are severe. d. Tell the parents that antihistamines work as well as intranasal glucocorticoids.
b
A nurse and a nursing student are reviewing the care of a 30-kg patient who will receive intravenous aminophylline. Which statement by the student indicates an understanding of the administration of this medication? a. "After the loading dose has been given, the patient will receive 6 mg/kg/hr." b. "Dosing is titrated based on the serum theophylline levels." c. "If the patient's serum theophylline level is less than 15 mcg/mL, the rate should be reduced." d. "The patient will receive a loading dose of 180 mg over 5 minutes."
b
A nurse is explaining activation of beta2 receptors to nursing students during a clinical rotation at the hospital. Which statement by a student demonstrates a need for further teaching? a. "Beta2 activation results in bronchodilation." b. "Beta2 activation results in contraction of uterine muscle." c. "Beta2 activation results in glycogenolysis." d. "Beta2 activation results in vasodilation of skeletal muscles."
b
A nurse is giving an enteral medication. The patient asks why this method is preferable for this drug. How will the nurse reply? a. "This route allows more rapid absorption of the drug." b. "This route is safer, less expensive, and more convenient." c. "This route is the best way to control serum drug levels." d. "This route prevents inactivation of the drug by digestive enzymes."
b
A nurse is preparing to administer a drug. Upon reading the medication guide, the nurse notes that the drug has been linked to symptoms of Parkinson disease in some patients. What will the nurse do? a. Ask the patient to report these symptoms, which are known to be teratogenic effects. b. Observe the patient closely for such symptoms and prepare to treat them if needed. c. Request an order to evaluate the patient's genetic predisposition to this effect. d. Warn the patient about these effects and provide reassurance that this is expected
b
A nurse is providing medication teaching for a patient who will begin taking diclofenac [Voltaren] gel for osteoarthritis in both knees and elbows. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching? a. "Because this is a topical drug, liver toxicity will not occur." b. "I should cover areas where the gel is applied to protect them from sunlight." c. "I will apply equal amounts of gel to all affected areas." d. "The topical formulation has the same toxicity as the oral formulation."
b
A nurse is teaching a group of nursing students about cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors. A student asks the nurse about characteristics of COX-1 inhibitors. Which statement by the nurse is true? a. "COX-1 inhibitors protect against colorectal cancer." b. "COX-1 inhibitors protect against myocardial infarction and stroke." c. "COX-1 inhibitors reduce fever." d. "COX-1 inhibitors suppress inflammation."
b
A nurse provides teaching to a patient with allergic rhinitis who will begin using an intranasal glucocorticoid. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching? a. "If the glucocorticoid causes burning or itching, I should use it every other day." b. "I should use a decongestant if necessary before using the glucocorticoid." c. "I should use the glucocorticoid whenever I have symptoms." d. "I will probably develop systemic effects from the topical glucocorticoid."
b
A patient asks the nurse what type of medications would be most effective for treating seasonal and perennial rhinitis. Which response by the nurse is correct? a. Pseudoephedrine [Sudafed] b. Fluticasone propionate [Fluticasone] c. Loratadine [Claritin] d. Intranasal cromolyn sodium [Atrovent]
b
A patient is taking a drug that does not bind to albumin. Which aspect of renal drug excretion is affected by this characteristic? a. Active tubular secretion b. Glomerular filtration c. Passive tubular reabsorption d. pH-dependent ionization
b
A patient is wheezing and is short of breath. The nurse assesses a heart rate of 88 beats/min, a respiratory rate of 24 breaths per minute, and a blood pressure of 124/78 mm Hg. The prescriber orders a nonspecific beta agonist medication. Besides evaluating the patient for a reduction in respiratory distress, the nurse will monitor for which side effect? a. Hypotension b. Tachycardia c. Tachypnea d. Urinary retention
b
A patient tells a nurse that antihistamines help relieve cold symptoms and wants to know why they are not recommended or prescribed for this purpose. The nurse tells the patient that antihistamines provide only mild relief from some cold symptoms by: a. anticholinergic properties that decrease rhinorrhea. b. blocking H1 receptors in nasal passages. c. reducing secretions at H2 receptor sites. d. having sedative effects, which help patients rest and sleep
b
A patient who has been taking a glucocorticoid for several months arrives in the clinic. The nurse notes that the patient's cheeks appear full and that a prominent hump of fat is present on the upper back. The nurse will ask the provider to order which test(s)? a. Liver function tests b. Serum electrolytes c. Tuberculin skin test d. Vitamin D levels
b
A patient who is a long-distance runner has been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis in both knees and will begin glucocorticoid therapy. When teaching the patient about the medication, the nurse will include what information? a. "By reducing inflammation, this drug will slow the progression of your disease." b. "Glucocorticoids are used as adjunctive therapy during acute flare-ups." c. "Oral glucocorticoids cause less toxicity than intra-articular injections." d. "You may resume running when the pain and swelling improve."
b
A patient who is taking acetaminophen for pain wants to know why it does not cause gastrointestinal upset, as do other over-the-counter pain medications. The nurse will explain that this is most likely because of which property of acetaminophen? a. It does not inhibit cyclooxygenase. b. It has minimal effects at peripheral sites. c. It is more similar to opioids than to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). d. It is selective for cyclooxygenase-2.
b
A patient will begin taking fexofenadine [Allegra] for hay fever. The nurse teaching this patient will tell the patient that: a. fexofenadine should be taken with food to prevent gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms. b. the medication may be taken once or twice daily. c. tolerance to sedation will occur in a few weeks. d. with renal impairment, this drug should be taken every other day.
b
A patient with a cough has been advised to use guaifenesin. The patient asks the nurse to explain the purpose of the drug. The nurse will explain that guaifenesin: a. dries secretions to help suppress coughing so patients can rest. b. helps stimulate the flow of secretions to increase cough productivity. c. helps to relieve chest pain associated with a cough. d. stimulates the body's natural immune responses.
b
A patient with moderate to severe chronic pain has been taking oxycodone [OxyContin] 60 mg every 6 hours PRN for several months and tells the nurse that the medication is not as effective as before. The patient asks if something stronger can be taken. The nurse will contact the provider to discuss: a. administering a combination opioid analgesic/acetaminophen preparation. b. changing the medication to a continued-release preparation. c. confronting the patient about drug-seeking behaviors. d. withdrawing the medication, because physical dependence has occurred.
b
A postoperative patient is being discharged home with acetaminophen/hydrocodone [Norco] for pain. The patient asks the nurse about using Tylenol for fever. Which statement by the nurse is correct? a. "It is not safe to take over-the-counter drugs with prescription medications." b. "Taking the two medications together poses a risk of drug toxicity." c. "There are no known drug interactions, so this will be safe." d. "Tylenol and Norco are different drugs, so there is no risk of overdose."
b
A postoperative patient reports pain, which the patient rates as an 8 on a scale from 1 to 10 (10 being the most extreme pain). The prescriber has ordered acetaminophen [Tylenol] 650 mg PO every 6 hours PRN pain. What will the nurse do? a. Ask the patient what medications have helped with pain in the past. b. Contact the provider to request a different analgesic medication. c. Give the pain medication and reposition the patient to promote comfort. d. Request an order to administer the medication every 4 hours
b
A postoperative patient who is worried about pain control will be discharged several days after surgery. The nurse providing discharge teaching tells the patient that the prescribed Norco is not as strong as the morphine the patient was given in the immediate postoperative period. Which response is the patient likely to experience? a. A decreased likelihood of filling the prescription for the drug b. A negative placebo effect when taking the medication c. An increased compliance with the drug regimen d. Optimistic, realistic expectations about the drug
b
A pregnant patient in her third trimester asks the nurse whether she can take aspirin for headaches. Which response by the nurse is correct? a. "Aspirin is safe during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy." b. "Aspirin may cause premature closure of the ductus arteriosus in your baby." c. "Aspirin may induce premature labor and should be avoided in the third trimester." d. "You should use a first-generation nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication."
b
A provider has written an order for a medication: drug 100 mg PO every 6 hours. The half-life for the drug is approximately 6 hours. The nurse is preparing to administer the first dose at 8:00 AM on Tuesday. On Wednesday, when will the serum drug level reach plateau? a. 2:00 AM b. 8:00 AM c. 2:00 PM d. 8:00 PM
b
A young adult woman will begin using an inhaled glucocorticoid to treat asthma. The nurse will teach this patient about the importance of which action? a. Lowering her calcium intake and increasing her vitamin D intake b. Participating in weight-bearing exercises on a regular basis c. Taking oral glucocorticoids during times of acute stress d. Using two reliable forms of birth control to prevent pregnancy
b
Many medications list side effects that include dry mouth, constipation, and urinary retention. What kinds of effects are these? a. Alpha adrenergic b. Anticholinergic c. Beta adrenergic d. Sympathetic
b
What is ipratropium bromide [Atrovent]? a. A cholinergic agent used for perennial rhinitis b. An anticholinergic used for allergic rhinitis and colds c. A medication that is used only in patients with asthma d. A drug that is inappropriate for use in patients with allergic rhinitis
b
Which instruction would the nurse teach a client receiving chemotherapy who also takes a steroid daily with a white blood cell count of 3600 per cubic millimeter and red blood cell count of 4.5 million/mm? a. Omit the daily dose of prednisone. b. Avoid large crowds and persons with infections. c. Shave with an electric shaver rather than a safety razor. d. Increase the intake of high-protein foods and red meats.
b
Which organ has only beta-1 receptors? a. Liver b. Heart c. Bladder d. Pancreas
b
A nurse is reviewing a patient's medical record before administering a medication. Which factors can alter the patient's physiologic response to the drug? (Select all that apply.) a. Ability to swallow pills b. Age c. Genetic factors d. Gender e. Height
b c d
What are considered the 'Big Three' properties of an ideal drug? (Select all that apply.) a. Irreversible action b. Effectiveness c. Safety d. Selectivity e. A recognizable trade name
b c d
Which side effects of opioid analgesics can have therapeutic benefits? (Select all that apply.) a. Biliary colic b. Cough suppression c. Suppression of bowel motility d. Urinary retention e. Vasodilation
b c e
Which therapeutic outcome is expected after administering ibuprofen? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. a. Diuresis b. Pain relief c. Temperature reduction d. Bronchodilation e. Anticoagulation f. Reduced inflammation
b c f
Over time, patients taking opioid analgesics develop tolerance to which side effects? (Select all that apply.) a. Constipation b. Euphoria c. Physical dependence d. Respiratory depression e. Sedation
b d e
. A clinic patient who has been taking a glucocorticoid for arthritis for several months remarks to the nurse, "It's a good thing my symptoms are better, because my mother has been quite ill, and I have to take care of her." The patient's blood pressure is 100/60 mm Hg. The nurse will report this to the provider and ask about: a. reducing the patient's dose. b. using every other day dosing. c. increasing the patient's dose. d. tapering the dose.
c
5. A woman in labor receives meperidine [Demerol] for pain. The nurse caring for the infant will observe the infant closely for: a. congenital anomalies. b. excessive crying and sneezing. c. respiratory depression. d. tremors and hyperreflexia.
c
A 5-year-old child is brought to the emergency department after ingesting diphenhydramine [Benadryl]. The child is uncoordinated and agitated. The nurse observes that the child's face is flushed, the temperature is 37.1 C, and the heart rate is 110 beats per minute. The nurse will expect to: a. administer atropine to reverse the adverse effects. b. apply ice packs to stop the flushing. c. give activated charcoal to absorb the drug. d. prepare to provide mechanical ventilation.
c
A nurse administers the same medication in the same preparation in the same dose to several patients and notes that some patients have a better response to the drug than others. What is the most likely explanation for this phenomenon? a. Altered bioavailability of the drug b. Patient compliance with the therapeutic regimen c. Pharmacogenomic differences among individuals d. Placebo effects enhancing expectations of drug efficacy
c
A nurse is admitting a patient to the hospital. The patient reports taking oral baclofen [Lioresal] but stopped taking the drug the day before admission. The nurse would be correct to anticipate which adverse effects? a. Weakness and dizziness b. Fatigue and drowsiness c. Seizures and hallucinations d. Respiratory depression and coma
c
A nurse is explaining drug metabolism to a nursing student who asks about glucuronidation. The nurse knows that this is a process that allows drugs to be: a. excreted in hydrolyzed form in the feces to reduce drug toxicity. b. reabsorbed from the urine into the renal circulation to minimize drug loss. c. recycled via the enterohepatic recirculation to remain in the body longer. d. transported across the renal tubules to be excreted in the urine.
c
A nurse is reviewing an older adult patient's chart before giving medications. Which patient information is of most concern? a. Chronic constipation b. Increased body fat c. Low serum albumin d. Low serum creatinine
c
A nurse is teaching a nursing student who wants to know how aspirin and nonaspirin firstgeneration NSAIDs differ. Which statement by the student indicates a need for further teaching? a. "Unlike aspirin, first-generation NSAIDs cause reversible inhibition of cyclooxygenase." b. "NSAIDs do not increase the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke; however, unlike ASA, they do not provide protective benefits against those conditions." c. "Unlike aspirin, first-generation NSAIDs do not carry a risk of hypersensitivity reactions." d. "Unlike aspirin, first-generation NSAIDs cause little or no suppression of platelet aggregation."
c
A nurse tells a nursing student that the glucocorticoids given for rheumatoid arthritis are nearly identical to substances produced naturally by the body. The student remarks that the drug must be very safe. Which response by the nurse is correct? a. "As long as the drug is taken as prescribed, side effects usually do not occur." b. "By interrupting the inflammatory process, these drugs inhibit side effects." c. "Side effects can occur and are dependent on the dose and duration of treatment." d. "The negative feedback loop prevents side effects."
c
A nursing student is preparing to give a medication that has a boxed warning. The student asks the nurse what this means. What will the nurse explain about boxed warnings? a. They indicate that a drug should not be given except in life-threatening circumstances. b. They provide detailed information about the adverse effects of the drug. c. They alert prescribers to measures to mitigate potential harm from side effects. d. They provide information about antidotes in the event that toxicity occurs.
c
A parent asks a nurse to recommend an intranasal decongestant for a 6-year-old child. Which response by the nurse is correct? a. "Decongestants are too sedating for children and should not be used." b. "Decongestants should not be given to children under 7 years old." c. "Decongestant drops are recommended instead of decongestant sprays." d. "Decongestant sprays should be used no longer than 5 to 10 days."
c
A patient asks a nurse why a friend who is taking the same drug responds differently to that drug. The nurse knows that the most common variation in drug response is due to differences in each patient's: a. drug receptor sites. b. hypersensitivity potential. c. metabolism of drugs. d. psychosocial response.
c
A patient claims to get better effects with a tablet of Brand X of a drug than with a tablet of Brand Y of the same drug. Both brands contain the same amount of the active ingredient. What does the nurse know to be most likely? a. Advertising by pharmaceutical companies can enhance patient expectations of one brand over another, leading to a placebo effect. b. Because the drug preparations are chemically equivalent, the effects of the two brands must be identical. c. Tablets can differ in composition and can have differing rates of disintegration and dissolution, which can alter the drug's effects in the body. d. The bioavailability of a drug is determined by the amount of the drug in each dose
c
A patient has been receiving an antibiotic with a small therapeutic index for 10 days. Upon assessment, the nurse notes an increase in the drug's side effects. What would be the nurse's priority action? a. Call the prescriber and have the antibiotic changed. b. Suspect an allergic reaction and administer a PRN antihistamine. c. Ask the prescriber to order a plasma drug level test. d. Set up oxygen and obtain an order for an antagonist.
c
A patient is being discharged after surgery. During the admission history, the nurse learned that the patient normally consumes 2 or 3 glasses of wine each day. The prescriber has ordered hydrocodone with acetaminophen [Norco] for pain. What will the nurse do? a. Request an order for acetaminophen without hydrocodone for pain. b. Suggest that the patient use ibuprofen for pain. c. Tell the patient not to drink wine while taking Norco. d. Tell the patient to limit wine intake to 1 or 2 glasses per day.
c
A patient is taking a drug that has known toxic side effects. What will the nurse do? a. Discontinue the drug at the first signs of toxicity. b. Ensure that complete blood counts are ordered periodically. c. Monitor the function of all organs potentially affected by the drug. d. Teach the patient how to treat the symptoms if they develop.
c
A patient receives a drug that has a narrow therapeutic range. The nurse administering this medication will expect to do what? a. Administer the drug at intervals longer than the drug half-life. b. Administer this medication intravenously. c. Monitor plasma drug levels. d. Teach the patient that maximum drug effects will occur within a short period.
c
A patient reports becoming "immune" to a medication because it no longer works to alleviate symptoms. The nurse recognizes that this decreased effectiveness is likely caused by: a. antagonists produced by the body that compete with the drug for receptor sites. b. decreased selectivity of receptor sites, resulting in a variety of effects. c. desensitization of receptor sites by continual exposure to the drug. d. synthesis of more receptor sites in response to the medication.
c
A patient tells the nurse that an analgesic he will begin taking may cause drowsiness and will decrease pain up to 4 hours at a time. Based on this understanding of the drug9s effects by the patient, the nurse will anticipate which outcome? a. Decreased chance of having a placebo effect b. Decreased motivation to take the drug c. Improved compliance with the drug regimen d. Increased likelihood of drug overdose
c
A patient tells the nurse that she takes aspirin for menstrual cramps, but she does not feel that it works well. What will the nurse suggest? a. The patient should avoid any type of COX inhibitor because of the risk of Reye's syndrome. b. The patient should increase the dose to a level that suppresses inflammation. c. The patient should use a first-generation nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication instead. d. The patient should use acetaminophen because of its selective effects on uterine smooth muscle.
c
A patient tells the nurse that the oral drug that has been prescribed has caused a lot of stomach discomfort in the past. What will the nurse ask the prescriber? a. Whether a sublingual form of the medication can be given b. Whether the medication can be given by a parenteral route instead c. Whether an enteric-coated form of the drug is available d. Whether the patient can receive a sustained-release preparation of the drug
c
A patient who has a lower back injury exhibits muscle spasms. The provider orders cyclobenzaprine [Flexeril] 10 mg 3 times a day. What will the nurse include when teaching this patient about this drug? a. "This drug carries some risk of developing hallucinations and psychotic symptoms." b. "This medication may cause your urine to turn brown, black, or dark green." c. "You may experience blurred vision, dry mouth, or constipation." d. "You will need to have liver function tests performed while taking this medication."
c
A patient who has biliary colic reports a pain level of 8 on a 1 to 10 pain scale with 10 being the most severe pain. The patient has an order for ibuprofen as needed for pain. Which action by the nurse is correct? a. Administer the ibuprofen as ordered. b. Contact the provider to discuss nonpharmacologic pain measures. c. Request an order for meperidine [Demerol]. d. Request an order for morphine sulfate.
c
A patient who takes daily doses of aspirin is scheduled for surgery next week. The nurse should advise the patient to: a. continue to use aspirin as scheduled. b. reduce the aspirin dosage by half until after surgery. c. stop using aspirin immediately. d. stop using aspirin 3 days before surgery.
c
A patient with asthma is admitted to an emergency department with a respiratory rate of 22 breaths per minute, a prolonged expiratory phase, tight wheezes, and an oxygen saturation of 90% on room air. The patient reports using fluticasone [Flovent HFA] 110 mcg twice daily and has used 2 puffs of albuterol [Proventil HFA], 90 mcg/puff, every 4 hours for 2 days. The nurse will expect to administer which drug? a. Four puffs of albuterol, oxygen, and intravenous theophylline b. Intramuscular glucocorticoids and salmeterol by metered-dose inhaler c. Intravenous glucocorticoids, nebulized albuterol and ipratropium, and oxygen d. Intravenous theophylline, oxygen, and fluticasone (Flovent HFA) 220 mcg
c
A patient with cancer has been taking an opioid analgesic 4 times daily for several months and reports needing increased doses for pain. What will the nurse tell the patient? a. PRN dosing of the drug may be more effective. b. The risk of respiratory depression increases over time. c. The patient should discuss increasing the dose with the provider. d. The patient should request the addition of a benzodiazepine to augment pain relief
c
A pregnant patient is in premature labor. Which class of drug will she be given? a. Alpha1 agonist b. Anticholinergic c. Beta2 agonist d. Beta2 antagonist
c
An adolescent with hay fever has been taking a prescribed first-generation antihistamine every 8 hours for the past 2 days. The adolescent tells the nurse, "This medicine is making me sleepy!'. Which response by the nurse would be most appropriate? a. "Take half a tablet before school." b. "Try omitting the early morning dose." c. "The drowsiness usually decreases after several days." d. "I'll write your teacher a note to explain your inability to concentrate in class while taking this medicine.
c
An adult male patient is 1 day postoperative from a total hip replacement. On a pain scale of 0 to 10, with 10 being the greatest pain, the patient reports a pain level of 10. Which medication would be most appropriate for the nurse to administer to this patient? a. 60 mg morphine sulfate PO b. 75 mg meperidine [Demerol] intramuscularly c. 6 mg morphine sulfate intravenously d. Fentanyl [Duragesic] patch 50 mcg transdermally
c
The nurse administers naloxone [Narcan] to a patient who has received a toxic dose of morphine sulfate. The nurse understands that the naloxone is effective because of which action? a. Countering the effects of morphine sulfate by agonist actions b. Increasing the excretion of morphine sulfate by altering serum pH c. Preventing activation of opioid receptors through antagonist actions d. Regulating the sensitivity of opioid receptors by neurochemical alterations
c
The nurse is preparing to care for a patient who will be taking an antihypertensive medication. Which action by the nurse is part of the assessment step of the nursing process? a. Asking the prescriber for an order to monitor serum drug levels b. Monitoring the patient for drug interactions after giving the medication c. Questioning the patient about over-the-counter medications d. Taking the patient's blood pressure throughout the course of treatment
c
What is a desired outcome when a drug is described as easy to administer? a. It can be stored indefinitely without need for refrigeration. b. It does not interact significantly with other medications. c. It enhances patient adherence to the drug regimen. d. It is usually relatively inexpensive to produce
c
Which action by a client with asthma indicates that the client teaching about use of a peak flow meter has been effective? a. Calls the health care provider when peak flows are in the green zone b. Does deep breathing and relaxation exercises when peak flow is in the red zone c. Uses a quick relief inhaled medication when peak flow is in the yellow zone d. Stops taking the daily inhaled corticosteroid when peak flow is in the yellow zone
c
Which action would the nurse perform when administering fluticasone propionate to a client with asthma? a. Assessing heart rate and rhythm b. Monitoring liver function blood tests c. Rinsing the oral cavity with water after use d. Obtaining blood glucose levels before meals
c
Which statement is correct regarding the effect of Atropine on the heart? a. Decreases heart rate b. Causes heart block c. Increases heart rate d. Induces cardiac arrest
c
Before administering a medication, what does the nurse need to know to evaluate how individual patient variability might affect the patient's response to the medication? (Select all that apply.) a. Chemical stability of the medication b. Ease of administration c. Family medical history d. Patient's age e. Patient's diagnosis
c d e
Which second-line medication would the nurse prepare to give after administering epinephrine to a client experiencing an anaphylactic reaction? Select all that apply. One, some, or all responses may be correct. a. Dopamine b. Norepinephrine c. Dexamethasone d. Diphenhydramine hydrochloride e. Hydrocortisone sodium succinate
c d e
A child is receiving a combination albuterol/ipratropium [DuoNeb] inhalation treatment. The patient complains of a dry mouth and sore throat. What will the nurse do? a. Contact the provider to report systemic anticholinergic side effects. b. Discontinue the aerosol treatment immediately. c. Notify the provider of a possible allergic reaction. d. Reassure the patient that these are expected side effects.
d
A client with osteoarthritis (A) reports experiencing painful back muscle spasms. Which medication would the nurse administer? a. Tramadol b. Hyaluronate c. Diclofenac epolamine patch d. Cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride
d
A nurse is preparing to care for a patient who is receiving digoxin. When screening for potential adverse effects from this drug, the nurse will review which of this patient's laboratory results? a. Albumin b. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine c. Hepatic enzymes d. Serum electrolytes
d
A nurse is reviewing a medication administration record before administering medications. Which order will the nurse implement? a. Furosemide [Lasix] 20 mg QD PO b. Furosemide [Lasix] 20 mg qd PO c. Furosemide [Lasix] 20 mg daily d. Furosemide [Lasix] 20 mg PO daily
d
A nurse is teaching a group of nursing students about the different formulations of beta2- adrenergic agonist medications. Which statement by a student indicates understanding of the teaching? a. "Beta2-adrenergic agonists provide quick relief via any formulation." b. "Long-acting beta2 agonists may be used alone to prevent attacks." c. "Short-acting beta2 agonists are usually given by nebulizer." d. "Oral beta2 agonists are not useful for short-term treatment."
d
A nurse is teaching the parent of a child with spastic quadriplegia about intrathecal baclofen [Lioresal]. Which statement by the parent indicates a need for further teaching? a. "I can expect my child to be drowsy when receiving this medication." b. "I should not notice any change in my child's muscle strength." c. "I will contact the provider if my child is constipated or cannot urinate." d. "If my child has a seizure, I should stop giving the medication immediately."
d
A nurse provides teaching to a patient who will begin taking a drug with a known risk of hepatotoxicity. Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further teaching? a. "I should avoid taking acetaminophen while taking this drug." b. "I will need periodic evaluation of aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels." c. "If I experience nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain, I should call my provider." d. "Routine testing and early detection of problems will prevent liver failure."
d
A parent asks a nurse about giving diphenhydramine [Benadryl] to a child to relieve cold symptoms. Which response by the nurse is correct? a. "Benadryl must be given in higher doses to provide relief for cold symptoms." b. "Intranasal glucocorticoids are more effective for treating cold symptoms." c. "Nasal antihistamines are more effective for treating cold symptoms." d. "Because histamine doesn't cause cold symptoms, Benadryl would not be effective."
d
A patient has been receiving intravenous penicillin for pneumonia for several days and begins to complain of generalized itching. The nurse auscultates bilateral wheezing and notes a temperature of 38.5°C (101°F). Which is the correct action by the nurse? a. Administer the next dose and continue to evaluate the patient's symptoms. b. Ask the prescriber if an antihistamine can be given to relieve the itching. c. Contact the prescriber to request an order for a chest radiograph. d. Hold the next dose and notify the prescriber of the symptoms.
d
A patient is about to receive prednisone for tendonitis. The nurse reviewing the chart would be concerned about which of the following in the patient's medical history? a. Asthma and allergic rhinitis b. Gouty arthritis c. Seborrheic dermatitis d. Systemic fungal infection
d
A patient is brought to the emergency department by friends, who report finding the patient difficult to awaken. The friends report removing two fentanyl transdermal patches from the patient's arm. On admission to the emergency department, the patient has pinpoint pupils and a respiratory rate of 6 breaths per minute. A few minutes after administration of naloxone, the respiratory rate is 8 breaths per minute and the patient's pupils are dilated. The nurse recognizes these symptoms as signs of: a. a mild opioid overdose. b. decreased opioid drug levels. c. improved ventilation. d. worsening hypoxia.
d
A patient is given a drug for the first time and develops shortness of breath. The patient's heart rate is 76 beats/min, the respiratory rate is 20 breaths per minute, and the blood pressure is 120/70 mm Hg. The nurse checks a drug administration manual to make sure the correct dose was given and learns that some patients taking the drug experience shortness of breath. The nurse will contact the provider to report what? a. An allergic reaction b. An idiosyncratic effect c. An iatrogenic response d. A side effect
d
A patient is to receive a beta agonist. Before administration of this medication, which assessment finding would most concern the nurse? a. Pulse oximetry reading of 88% b. Blood pressure of 100/60 mm Hg c. Respiratory rate of 28 breaths per minute d. Heart rate of 110 beats/min
d
A patient is using a metered-dose inhaler containing albuterol for asthma. The medication label instructs the patient to administer "2 puffs every 4 hours as needed for coughing or wheezing." The patient reports feeling jittery sometimes when taking the medication, and doesn't feel that the medication is always effective. Which action is outside the nurse's scope of practice? a. Asking the patient to demonstrate the use of the inhaler b. Assessing the patient's exposure to tobacco smoke c. Auscultating lung sounds and obtaining vital signs d. Suggesting that the patient use 1 puff to reduce side effects
d
A patient newly diagnosed with cancer reports having pain at a level of 7 to 8 on a scale of 10. Which type of pain management will be used initially to treat pain in this patient? a. Acetaminophen [Tylenol] b. Ibuprofen [Motrin] c. Nonpharmacologic measures d. Opioid analgesics
d
A patient who has had abdominal surgery has been receiving morphine sulfate via a patientcontrolled analgesia (PCA) pump. The nurse assesses the patient and notes that the patient's pupils are dilated, and that the patient is drowsy and lethargic. The patient's heart rate is 84 beats/min, the respiratory rate is 10 breaths per minute, and the blood pressure is 90/50 mm Hg. What will the nurse do? a. Discuss possible opiate dependence with the patient's provider. b. Encourage the patient to turn over and cough and take deep breaths. c. Note the effectiveness of the analgesia in the patient's chart. d. Prepare to administer naloxone and possibly ventilatory support.
d
A patient who has seasonal allergies in the spring and fall asks the nurse about oral antihistamines. Which response by the nurse is correct? a. "Anticholinergic effects are more common with second-generation antihistamines." b. "First-generation antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine [Benadryl], are more effective." c. "Make sure you take antihistamines only when you have symptoms to minimize side effects." d. "You should take oral antihistamines daily during each allergy season to get maximum effects."
d
A patient who is taking a fixed-dose combination drug with an opioid and acetaminophen for cancer pain reports increased muscular pain. The patient asks the nurse if the pain medication dose can be increased. What will the nurse tell this patient? a. An adjuvant analgesic medication will probably be used to help with this pain. b. An additional dose of acetaminophen can be used to enhance pain relief. c. Increasing the dose is possible, because there is no ceiling to opioid pain relief. d. The provider will prescribe separate dosing of the opioid and acetaminophen.
d
A patient who is taking morphine for pain asks the nurse how a pain medication can also cause constipation. What does the nurse know about morphine? a. It binds to different types of receptors in the body. b. It can cause constipation in toxic doses. c. It causes only one type of response, and the constipation is coincidental. d. It is selective to receptors that regulate more than one body process.
d
A patient who takes aspirin for rheumatoid arthritis is admitted to the hospital complaining of headache and ringing in the ears. The plasma salicylate level is 300 mcg/mL, and the urine pH is 6.0. What will the nurse do? a. Increase the aspirin dose to treat the patient's headache. b. Notify the provider of possible renal toxicity. c. Prepare to provide respiratory support, because the patient shows signs of overdose. d. Withhold the aspirin until the patient's symptoms have subsided.
d
A patient with COPD is prescribed tiotropium [Spiriva]. After the initial dose, the patient reports only mild relief within 30 minutes. What will the nurse tell the patient? a. "You may have another dose in 4 hours." b. "You may need to take two inhalations instead of one." c. "You should have peak effects in about 6 hours." d. "You should see improved effects within the next week."
d
A patient with asthma comes to a clinic for treatment of an asthma exacerbation. The patient's medication history lists an inhaled glucocorticoid, montelukast [Singulair], and a SABA as needed via MDI. The nurse assesses the patient and notes a respiratory rate of 18 breaths per minute, a heart rate of 96 beats per minute, and an oxygen saturation of 95%. The nurse auscultates mild expiratory wheezes and equal breath sounds bilaterally. What will the nurse do? a. Contact the provider to request a systemic glucocorticoid. b. Contact the provider to suggest using a long-acting beta2 agonist. c. Evaluate the need for teaching about MDI use. d. Question the patient about how much albuterol has been used.
d
A patient with asthma will be using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) for delivery of an inhaled medication. The provider has ordered 2 puffs to be given twice daily. It is important for the nurse to teach this patient that: a. the patient should inhale suddenly to receive the maximum dose. b. the patient should activate the device and then inhale. c. the patient should store the MDI in the refrigerator between doses. d. the patient should wait 1 minute between puffs.
d
A patient with cerebral palsy who has been receiving baclofen [Lioresal] via gastrostomy tube for 3 months is admitted to the hospital for evaluation of new-onset seizures. What may the nurse suspect to be the cause of these seizures? a. Baclofen toxicity b. Common adverse effect of baclofen c. Idiopathic causes related to disease process d. Missed doses of baclofen
d
A patient with chronic pain has been receiving morphine sulfate but now has decreased pain. The prescriber changes the medication to pentazocine [Talwin]. The nurse will monitor the patient for: a. euphoria. b. hypotension. c. respiratory depression. d. yawning and sweating.
d
A patient with persistent, frequent asthma exacerbations asks a nurse about a long-acting beta2- agonist medication. What will the nurse tell this patient? a. LABAs are safer than short-acting beta2 agonists. b. LABAs can be used on an as-needed basis to treat symptoms. c. LABAs reduce the risk of asthma-related deaths. d. LABAs should be combined with an inhaled glucocorticoid.
d
A patient with stable COPD receives prescriptions for an inhaled glucocorticoid and an inhaled beta2-adrenergic agonist. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of this medication regimen? a. "I should use the glucocorticoid as needed when symptoms flare." b. "I will need to use the beta2-adrenergic agonist drug daily." c. "The beta2-adrenergic agonist suppresses the synthesis of inflammatory mediators." d. "The glucocorticoid is used as prophylaxis to prevent exacerbations."
d
A postoperative patient has orders for morphine sulfate 1 to 2 mg IV every 1 hour PRN for severe pain and acetaminophen-hydrocodone [Norco] 5 mg PO every 4 to 6 hours PRN for moderate pain. The patient reports pain at a level of 8 on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the worst pain. Which action by the nurse is appropriate? a. Administer acetaminophen-hydrocodone 5 mg PO every 4 hours. b. Administer acetaminophen-hydrocodone 5 mg PO every 6 hours and change to every 4 hours if not effective. c. Administer morphine sulfate 1 mg IV every 1 hour until pain subsides. d. Administer morphine sulfate 2 mg IV and evaluate the patient's pain in 15 to 30 minutes.
d
An older male patient with an increased risk of MI is taking furosemide [Lasix] and low-dose aspirin. The patient is admitted to the hospital, and the nurse notes an initial blood pressure of 140/80 mm Hg. The patient has had a 10-pound weight gain since a previous admission 3 months earlier. The patient has voided only a small amount of concentrated urine. The serum creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels are elevated. The nurse will contact the provider to discuss: a. adding an antihypertensive medication. b. obtaining serum electrolytes. c. ordering a potassium-sparing diuretic. d. withdrawing the aspirin.
d
The nurse is assessing a newly admitted older patient who has recently lost 15 lb. The nurse notes that the patient is taking warfarin (Coumadin). Which laboratory tests will the nurse discuss with this patient's provider? a. Blood glucose and C-reactive protein b. Complete blood count and hepatic function tests c. Renal function tests and serum electrolytes d. Serum albumin and coagulation studies
d
The nurse is caring for a child who has ingested a toxic amount of aspirin. The provider orders an intravenous drug that will increase pH in the blood and urine. The nurse understands that this effect is necessary to: a. decrease the gastric absorption of aspirin. b. decrease the lipid solubility of aspirin. c. increase the serum protein binding of aspirin. d. increase the urinary excretion of aspirin.
d
The nurse is preparing to administer penicillin G intramuscularly to a child. The child's parents ask why the drug cannot be given in an oral liquid form. What is the nurse's reply? a. "This drug causes severe gastric upset if given orally." b. "This drug has a narrow therapeutic range, and the dose must be tightly controlled." c. "This drug is absorbed much too quickly in an oral form." d. "This drug would be inactivated by enzymes in the stomach."
d
The nurse is teaching a patient about home administration of insulin to treat diabetes mellitus. As part of the teaching, the patient and nurse identify goals to maintain specific blood glucose ranges. This represents which aspect of the nursing process? a. Assessment b. Evaluation c. Implementation d. Planning
d
The nurse is teaching a patient how a medication works to treat an illness. To do this, the nurse will rely on knowledge of which topic? a. Clinical pharmacology b. Drug efficacy c. Pharmacokinetics d. Pharmacotherapeutics
d
Which adverse effect of morphine indicates the need for naloxone administration? a. Blurred vision b. Urinary retention c. Mental confusion d. Respiratory depression
d
Which increased risk would the nurse consider when assessing a client with diabetes who is receiving long-term corticosteroid therapy and is admitted with leg ulcers? a. Weight loss b. Hypoglycemia c. Decreased blood pressure d. Inadequate wound healing
d
Which medication should be used for asthma patients as part of step 1 management? a. Combination inhaled glucocorticoids/long-acting beta2 agonists b. Inhaled low-dose glucocorticoids c. Long-acting beta2 agonists d. Short-acting beta2 agonists
d
Which medication would help the client sleep and treat the allergic symptoms of a client who reports disturbed sleep due to allergic pruritus? a. Cetirizine b. Fexofenadine c. Desloratadine d. Chlorpheniramine
d
Which over-the-counter medication would the nurse teach a client taking antihypertensive medication to avoid? a. Omeprazole b. Acetaminophen c. Docusate sodium d. Pseudoephedrine
d
Which statement by the nurse indicates an understanding as to why atropine is given in the preoperative environment? a. "Atropine induces sleep". b. "Atropine works as a pain reliever". c. "Atropine impairs memory" d. "Atropine decreases secretions".
d
