AEMCA Pharmacology for Paramedics 5

Question 1

A patient on chronic lithium therapy presents with nausea, tremor, and altered mental status. This presentation is most consistent with:

Accepted Answer

Lithium toxicity

Answer

Tremor, nausea, and AMS are classic signs of lithium toxicity, which has a narrow therapeutic index and is worsened by dehydration.

Question 2

Which opioid analgesic has the longest duration of action and highest risk for prolonged respiratory depression?

Accepted Answer

Methadone

Answer

Methadone has an extremely long half-life (24-36+ hours), putting patients at risk for delayed respiratory depression after initial dosing.

Question 3

A paramedic needs to administer 250 mg of a drug supplied as 500 mg/10 mL. What volume should be administered?

Accepted Answer

5 mL

Answer

Using the formula: Volume = (Desired dose / Available dose) × Volume on hand = (250/500) × 10 = 5 mL.

Question 4

Which antidysrhythmic is the FIRST-LINE drug for ventricular fibrillation refractory to defibrillation?

Accepted Answer

Amiodarone 300 mg IV bolus

Answer

Current AHA guidelines recommend amiodarone 300 mg IV as first-line antidysrhythmic for shock-refractory VF/pulseless VT.

Question 5

Ondansetron (Zofran) exerts its antiemetic effect by blocking which receptor type?

Accepted Answer

Serotonin 5-HT3 receptors

Answer

Ondansetron selectively antagonizes 5-HT3 serotonin receptors in the GI tract and chemoreceptor trigger zone to prevent nausea and vomiting.

AEMCA - Advanced Emergency Medical Care Assistant Practice Test