Safe Medication Administration Flashcards

Which instruction about metered-dose inhaler (MDI) technique is correct?

Answer: Breathe in slowly and deeply while activating the inhaler, then hold breath for 10 seconds

Slow, deep inhalation during MDI activation followed by 10-second breath-hold maximizes medication deposition in the lower airways.

Which teaching point about digoxin toxicity signs is most important for a client newly prescribed digoxin (Lanoxin) for atrial fibrillation?

Answer: Report visual disturbances (yellow/green tinted vision), nausea, vomiting, and irregular heartbeat

Classic digoxin toxicity signs include visual disturbances (yellow/green vision), nausea/vomiting, and bradyarrhythmias.

Which medication cannot be crushed for NG tube administration?

Answer: Metoprolol succinate (Toprol XL) extended-release tablet

Extended-release (XL/ER/SR) tablets cannot be crushed as this destroys the slow-release mechanism and causes dose dumping with potential toxicity.

When preparing to administer a prefilled subcutaneous enoxaparin (Lovenox) syringe, which action is correct?

Answer: Do not expel the air bubble; inject as is from the prefilled syringe

The air bubble in prefilled enoxaparin syringes is intentional. It follows the medication to prevent drug leakage from the injection tract and must not be expelled.

A client received oral acetaminophen 3 hours ago. The order is for q4h PRN. What is the correct action?

Answer: Hold the dose until the full 4-hour interval has elapsed

A q4h order means a minimum of 4 hours must elapse between doses. Administering before this interval exceeds safe dosing frequency.

A new medication order reads: 'Furosemide (Lasix) 40 mg IVPB STAT.' Which element should prompt clarification with the prescriber?

Answer: All elements are clear and the order can be administered as written

This order contains all required elements: drug name, dose, route, and frequency/timing. The order is complete and can be executed as written after appropriate assessment.