Mixed Deck — All FPGEE Topics Flashcards

Which adrenergic receptor subtype mediates bronchodilation?

Answer: Beta-2

Beta-2 adrenergic receptors in bronchial smooth muscle mediate relaxation and bronchodilation when stimulated.

Which pharmacokinetic parameter describes the fraction of an administered dose that reaches systemic circulation unchanged?

Answer: Bioavailability (F)

Bioavailability (F) accounts for first-pass metabolism, absorption efficiency, and other factors that reduce systemic drug availability.

A drug reduces the absolute risk of myocardial infarction from 4% to 1%. What is the relative risk reduction?

Answer: 75%

RRR = (Control risk − Treatment risk) / Control risk = (4% − 1%) / 4% = 75%.

Which professional attribute is most valued in pharmacokinetics within the FPGEE field?

Answer: Accountability and commitment to standards

Accountability and commitment to professional standards build trust and ensure consistent, high-quality practice.

What is the recommended maximum daily dose of acetaminophen for a healthy adult?

Answer: 4,000 mg

The maximum daily dose of acetaminophen for healthy adults is 4,000 mg (4 g) per day.

What is the standard number of attempts allowed on the FPGEE examination before a candidate must wait or fulfill additional requirements according to NABP policy?

Answer: 5 attempts within a rolling 5-year period

NABP policy allows candidates up to 5 attempts to pass the FPGEE within a rolling 5-year period; candidates who exhaust all attempts must reapply and meet eligibility requirements again.

What is the primary mechanism of resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics in MRSA?

Answer: Altered penicillin-binding protein (PBP2a) encoded by mecA gene

MRSA resistance is mediated by mecA gene–encoded PBP2a, a modified penicillin-binding protein with low affinity for all beta-lactam antibiotics.

A pharmacist receives a faxed prescription for a Schedule III controlled substance. Under federal law, this is:

Answer: Permissible; the fax serves as the original

Federal law permits faxed prescriptions for Schedule III–V controlled substances, with the fax serving as the original prescription.

A patient taking phenytoin for seizures is started on valproic acid. What is the expected net effect on phenytoin?

Answer: Decreased total phenytoin with possible increased free phenytoin levels

Valproic acid displaces phenytoin from protein binding (decreasing total levels) while also inhibiting its metabolism, often raising free (active) phenytoin.

Under HIPAA, which entity is considered a 'covered entity'?

Answer: A community pharmacy

Community pharmacies are covered entities under HIPAA because they transmit health information electronically for standard transactions.

A patient with a sulfa allergy asks about safety of taking hydrochlorothiazide. What is the pharmacist's BEST response?

Answer: Use with caution as cross-reactivity with sulfonamides is possible

Hydrochlorothiazide contains a sulfonamide moiety; potential cross-reactivity with sulfa allergy warrants caution and clinical assessment.

What is the primary mechanism of action of metformin in treating type 2 diabetes?

Answer: Decreases hepatic glucose production

Metformin primarily works by inhibiting hepatic gluconeogenesis, reducing liver glucose output.

Which of the following antihypertensives is absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy due to teratogenicity?

Answer: ACE inhibitors

ACE inhibitors cause fetal renal damage and are absolutely contraindicated in pregnancy (all trimesters).

In FPGEE practice, what is the best approach to quality improvement in pharmacy practice?

Answer: Use data-driven methods with measurable outcomes

Data-driven quality improvement with measurable outcomes ensures that changes actually produce the intended improvements and can be verified.

What is the correct needle gauge to use when administering a subcutaneous (SQ) injection to an average-weight adult?

Answer: 25–27 gauge

Subcutaneous injections in adults typically use a 25–27 gauge needle to minimize tissue trauma while delivering medication into the subcutaneous fat.

The patient is displaying symptoms of uncontrolled diabetes (an rise in A1c) as well as a negative side effect from taking statins (muscle cramps, fatigue). The results of thyroid tests are normal. The dosages of the statins and hypoglycemics should be changed.

Answer: All of the above

Viruses are unique biological entities that are not composed of cells; instead, they consist of genetic material (DNA or RNA) encased in a protein coat. They are obligate intracellular parasites, meaning they can only reproduce by infecting a host cell and utilizing its cellular machinery. Viruses are highly diverse and capable of infecting all types of living organisms, from bacteria to plants and animals.

Which isomer of albuterol is responsible for its bronchodilatory therapeutic effect?

Answer: R-albuterol (levalbuterol)

R-albuterol (levalbuterol) is the eutomer that binds beta-2 receptors and causes bronchodilation; S-albuterol may contribute to bronchoconstriction.

What is the value of continuing education in pharmacy practice for FPGEE professionals?

Answer: It keeps professionals current with evolving standards and practices

Continuing education ensures professionals stay current with the latest developments, standards, and best practices in their field.

Which organism is the most common cause of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) in the US?

Answer: Streptococcus pneumoniae

Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus) is the leading bacterial cause of community-acquired pneumonia in adults in the US.

A 28-year-old woman with epilepsy who wants to become pregnant is on valproic acid. Which alternative AED is preferred to minimize teratogenicity?

Answer: Lamotrigine

Lamotrigine has the lowest teratogenic risk among common AEDs and is preferred for women of childbearing age when seizure control allows.