CCP Patient Counseling & Safety 2

Question 1

A patient on warfarin reports starting a new fish oil supplement (2g/day). What is the most appropriate counseling action?

Accepted Answer

Counsel the patient to notify their prescriber and monitor INR more closely

Answer

Fish oil at higher doses can potentiate warfarin's anticoagulant effect, so closer INR monitoring and prescriber notification are warranted.

Question 2

During a medication review, a consultant pharmacist identifies that an elderly patient is taking diphenhydramine nightly for sleep. According to the Beers Criteria, what is the primary concern?

Accepted Answer

Anticholinergic effects including cognitive impairment and urinary retention

Answer

Diphenhydramine is a Beers Criteria drug in older adults due to strong anticholinergic properties that increase risk of confusion, falls, and urinary retention.

Question 3

A patient with dysphagia is prescribed an extended-release potassium chloride tablet. What is the safest counseling recommendation?

Accepted Answer

Consult the prescriber about switching to a liquid or immediate-release formulation

Answer

Extended-release potassium tablets must not be crushed because doing so can cause GI ulceration; a liquid or alternative formulation is safer for dysphagia patients.

Question 4

Which technique best assesses patient comprehension during medication counseling?

Accepted Answer

Use the teach-back method by asking the patient to explain the information back

Answer

The teach-back method requires patients to repeat information in their own words, validating true understanding rather than passive acknowledgment.

Question 5

A nursing home resident on metformin develops acute kidney injury. What is the primary safety concern the consultant pharmacist should address?

Accepted Answer

Lactic acidosis due to metformin accumulation in renal impairment

Answer

Metformin accumulates when renal clearance is reduced, increasing the risk of potentially fatal lactic acidosis.

(CCP) Certified Consultant Pharmacist Practice Test

(CCP) Certified Consultant Pharmacist Practice Test

CCP Patient Counseling & Safety 2