CMT CMT Adverse Drug Reactions and Side Effects

Question 1

What is the definition of an adverse drug reaction (ADR)?

Accepted Answer

An unintended, harmful response to a medication given at a normal dose

Answer

A desired therapeutic effect of a medication

Answer

A medication error caused by incorrect dosing

Answer

A patient's refusal to take a medication

Question 2

Which of the following is an example of an allergic reaction to a medication?

Accepted Answer

Hives (urticaria) after taking penicillin

Answer

Drowsiness from an antihistamine

Answer

Dry mouth from an anticholinergic

Answer

Increased urination from a diuretic

Question 3

What should a medication technician do if a resident shows signs of anaphylaxis after medication administration?

Accepted Answer

Call 911 and notify the nurse immediately

Answer

Document the reaction and continue the medication schedule

Answer

Administer another medication to counteract the reaction

Answer

Wait to see if symptoms resolve on their own

Question 4

Which medication class is most commonly associated with causing gastrointestinal upset as a side effect?

Accepted Answer

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)

Answer

Antihistamines

Answer

Antihypertensives

Answer

Antifungals

Question 5

What is the difference between a side effect and a toxic effect of a medication?

Accepted Answer

Side effects are mild and expected at normal doses; toxic effects are dangerous and typically occur from excessive doses

Answer

They are the same thing

Answer

Toxic effects are always allergic reactions

Answer

Side effects only occur with controlled substances

Question 6

A resident taking warfarin develops unusual bruising. What should the medication technician do?

Accepted Answer

Document and report the finding to the supervising nurse immediately

Answer

Ignore it since bruising is common in elderly residents

Answer

Discontinue the medication without consulting staff

Answer

Assume it is from a fall and not medication-related