CBN Pharmacology & Medication Management 3

Question 1

When should bariatric patients take calcium and iron supplements relative to each other?

Accepted Answer

At least 2 hours apart from each other

Answer

Calcium and iron compete for the same absorptive transporters and should be taken at least 2 hours apart to optimize absorption of both supplements.

Question 2

A post-sleeve gastrectomy patient reports worsening gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Which medication is most appropriate for first-line pharmacological management?

Accepted Answer

Proton pump inhibitor (e.g., omeprazole)

Answer

Proton pump inhibitors provide the most effective and sustained acid suppression and are first-line treatment for GERD after bariatric surgery.

Question 3

Which antidepressant formulation may have significantly unpredictable bioavailability after gastric bypass and should be avoided?

Accepted Answer

SSRIs in extended-release formulations

Answer

Extended-release SSRI formulations depend on intact GI anatomy for proper drug release; immediate-release or liquid forms are preferred after gastric bypass.

Question 4

Severe thiamine (Vitamin B1) deficiency following bariatric surgery can lead to which life-threatening neurological emergency?

Accepted Answer

Wernicke encephalopathy

Answer

Severe thiamine deficiency can cause Wernicke encephalopathy, presenting with the classic triad of ophthalmoplegia, ataxia, and confusion.

Question 5

A bariatric patient requires immunosuppressant therapy. What is the most important pharmacological consideration the nurse should communicate?

Accepted Answer

Drug levels require more frequent monitoring due to unpredictable GI absorption

Answer

Altered GI anatomy after bariatric surgery unpredictably affects immunosuppressant absorption, requiring more frequent therapeutic drug level monitoring.

(CBN) Certified Bariatric Nurse Practice Test

(CBN) Certified Bariatric Nurse Practice Test

CBN Pharmacology & Medication Management 3