AOCNP Palliative Care and Symptom Management

Question 1

Which opioid is considered first-line for moderate-to-severe cancer pain according to the WHO analgesic ladder?

Accepted Answer

Morphine

Answer

Tramadol

Answer

Codeine

Answer

Acetaminophen

Question 2

A patient on long-acting opioids reports breakthrough pain. The appropriate breakthrough dose is approximately:

Accepted Answer

10–15% of the total daily opioid dose

Answer

50% of the total daily opioid dose

Answer

100% of the single long-acting dose

Answer

A fixed 5 mg morphine dose regardless of baseline

Question 3

Which non-pharmacological intervention has the strongest evidence for reducing cancer-related fatigue?

Accepted Answer

Aerobic exercise

Answer

Vitamin C supplementation

Answer

Prolonged bed rest

Answer

Methylphenidate alone

Question 4

Which antiemetic is most appropriate for opioid-induced nausea acting via the chemoreceptor trigger zone?

Accepted Answer

Prochlorperazine

Answer

Ondansetron

Answer

Dexamethasone

Answer

Metoclopramide

Question 5

A patient with cancer-related dyspnea refractory to oxygen is best treated with:

Accepted Answer

Low-dose opioids

Answer

High-dose benzodiazepines alone

Answer

Nebulized furosemide

Answer

Inhaled beta-agonists

Question 6

Which laxative regimen should ALWAYS accompany opioid therapy to prevent constipation?

Accepted Answer

A stimulant laxative such as senna

Answer

High-fiber diet alone

Answer

Osmotic laxatives only as needed

Answer

Bulk-forming agents such as psyllium