CHPN CHPN Pharmacology & Medication Management 2

Question 1

What is the equianalgesic oral dose of oxycodone compared to 30 mg of oral morphine?

Accepted Answer

20 mg

Answer

20 mg of oral oxycodone is equianalgesic to 30 mg of oral morphine, giving oxycodone roughly a 1.5:1 potency advantage.

Question 2

A hospice patient with renal failure needs opioid pain management. Which opioid should be avoided?

Accepted Answer

Morphine

Answer

Morphine's active metabolite (morphine-6-glucuronide) accumulates in renal failure, causing sedation and respiratory depression.

Question 3

Which co-analgesic is most effective for neuropathic pain in hospice patients?

Accepted Answer

Gabapentin

Answer

Gabapentin (and pregabalin) are first-line adjuvant analgesics for neuropathic pain, working by blocking calcium channels in the nervous system.

Question 4

A hospice patient is experiencing terminal restlessness unresponsive to lorazepam. Which medication may be used for palliative sedation?

Accepted Answer

Midazolam

Answer

Midazolam is a fast-acting benzodiazepine commonly used for palliative sedation in refractory terminal agitation.

Question 5

What is the role of corticosteroids such as dexamethasone in hospice symptom management?

Accepted Answer

Reduce inflammation, appetite stimulation, and relieve nausea and pain from pressure

Answer

Dexamethasone serves multiple palliative purposes including reducing tumor-related inflammation, stimulating appetite, and managing nausea and neuropathic pain.

(CHPN) Hospice Certified Professional Practice Test

(CHPN) Hospice Certified Professional Practice Test

CHPN CHPN Pharmacology & Medication Management 2