BSN Pharmacology and Medication Administration 3

Question 1

A patient is receiving a continuous IV infusion of regular insulin. The nurse notes the blood glucose is 58 mg/dL and the patient is diaphoretic. What is the nurse's first action?

Accepted Answer

Stop the insulin infusion and notify the provider

Answer

Administer 50% dextrose IV push per protocol

Answer

Recheck blood glucose in 15 minutes

Answer

Offer the patient orange juice to drink

Question 2

A nurse is preparing to give a patient their daily dose of levothyroxine (Synthroid). Which instruction best supports proper absorption?

Accepted Answer

Give it in the morning on an empty stomach, 30–60 minutes before breakfast

Answer

Give it at bedtime with a glass of milk

Answer

Give it with the morning meal to reduce GI upset

Answer

Give it with calcium supplements for added bone protection

Question 3

A patient with a penicillin allergy is prescribed cefazolin. Which nursing action is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Administer with caution and monitor closely for cross-reactivity reactions

Answer

Refuse to administer and substitute azithromycin without contacting the provider

Answer

Give the medication as ordered because cephalosporins are unrelated to penicillin

Answer

Administer diphenhydramine prophylactically and then give the full dose

Question 4

The nurse is performing a medication reconciliation on a newly admitted patient who takes MAOIs at home. Which over-the-counter medication poses the greatest danger for this patient?

Accepted Answer

Pseudoephedrine (decongestant)

Answer

Acetaminophen (Tylenol)

Answer

Calcium carbonate (antacid)

Answer

Docusate sodium (stool softener)

Question 5

A patient is prescribed atorvastatin (Lipitor). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor to detect an adverse effect of this medication?

Accepted Answer

Creatine kinase (CK)

Answer

Serum potassium

Answer

Fasting blood glucose

Answer

INR/PT

Question 6

Which patient statement about using a metered-dose inhaler (MDI) with a spacer device indicates the need for further teaching?

Accepted Answer

'I should inhale as fast and hard as I can right after pressing the canister.'

Answer

'I will shake the inhaler well before each use.'

Answer

'I will breathe in slowly and deeply after activating the inhaler.'

Answer

'I will wait at least one minute between puffs if a second dose is prescribed.'