Pharmacology and Medication Administration Flashcards

What is the correct angle for administering a subcutaneous injection?

Answer: 45 degrees

Subcutaneous injections are given into the fatty tissue just below the skin. A 45-degree angle is typically used for average-sized patients to ensure the medication is delivered into the subcutaneous layer and not the muscle. For patients with more adipose tissue, a 90-degree angle may be used.

Which of the following is a characteristic of a Schedule II controlled substance?

Answer: High potential for abuse but has an accepted medical use

Schedule II drugs have a high potential for abuse which may lead to severe psychological or physical dependence. These drugs have a currently accepted medical use in treatment in the United States. Examples include oxycodone, fentanyl, and amphetamine.

The medical abbreviation 'bid' on a prescription means:

Answer: Twice a day

'bid' is a Latin abbreviation for 'bis in die,' which translates to twice a day. It is crucial for medical assistants to understand these common abbreviations to ensure correct medication administration and patient instruction.

Which of the following is NOT one of the 'Seven Rights' of medication administration?

Answer: Right Provider

The 'Seven Rights' are Right Patient, Right Drug, Right Dose, Right Route, Right Time, Right Documentation, and Right to Refuse. Right Provider is not one of the core rights, although verifying the order with the prescribing provider is part of the safety check process.

A provider orders 250 mg of a medication. The medication is available as 500 mg/2 mL. How many mL should the medical assistant administer?

Answer: 1 mL

To solve this, use the formula (Dose Ordered / Dose on Hand) x Quantity = Amount to Administer. So, (250 mg / 500 mg) x 2 mL = 0.5 x 2 mL = 1 mL. Accurate dosage calculation is a critical skill to prevent medication errors.

A patient is prescribed furosemide (Lasix). A medical assistant should understand that this medication is a type of:

Answer: Diuretic

Furosemide is a loop diuretic, often called a 'water pill.' It works by helping the kidneys remove excess fluid and salt from the body, which is used to treat fluid retention (edema) and high blood pressure (hypertension).

What is the preferred intramuscular injection site for an infant under 12 months of age?

Answer: Vastus lateralis

The vastus lateralis muscle, located in the anterolateral aspect of the thigh, is the preferred site for intramuscular injections in infants. This muscle is well-developed in infants and is away from major nerves and blood vessels, making it the safest option.